FIGURE 19-3
-Four point charges of equal magnitude but with varying signs are arranged on three of the corners and at the center of the square of side d as shown in Figure 19-3. Which of the arrows shown represents the net force acting on the center charge?

Question

FIGURE 19-3 
-Four point charges of equal magnitude but with varying signs are arranged on three of the corners and at the center of the square of side d as shown in Figure 19-3. Which of the arrows shown represents the net force acting on the center charge?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The net force on the center charge is the vector sum of the forces due to the four other charges. The forces due to the charges at the corners are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, so they cancel out. The force due to the charge at the center is zero. Therefore, the net force on the center charge is due to the charge at the remaining corner, which is to the right of the center charge. Therefore, the net force on the center charge is to the right, which is represented by arrow A.

FIGURE 19-3 -Four Point Charges of Equal Magnitude but with Varying Signs