Using the simulation at http://phet.colorado.edu/sims/charges-and-fields/charges

Question

Using the simulation at http://phet.colorado.edu/sims/charges-and-fields/charges-and-fields_en.html (click the "show E-field" and "grid" in the green box at the bottom-right), determine if & when there will be an equilibrium point (i.e., a place where E = 0) and if so, where it will be. To create, say, a +2Q, put two + charges on top of one another. To remove a charge, drag it back to the "box" of charges. Because of the grid of E field arrows, you may need to move the charges around a bit to see what's really happening, or use the E field sensor.

An equilibrium point will occur between two charges that have the _______; the equilibrium point is _________. (Select all that apply.)

a. same sign but different magnitudes; closer to the larger charge

b. opposite sign but same magnitude; equidistance to the two charges

c. opposite sign and different magnitudes; closer to the smaller charge

d. same sign but different magnitudes; closer to the smaller

e. charge opposite sign and different magnitudes; closer to the larger

f. charge same sign and magnitude; equidistance to the two charges

I do not understand how to use the simulator.

Explanation / Answer

the equillibrium would be in between the charges if the charges have same sign

and it would be closer to the smaller charge

so the answer would be

d. same sign but different magnitudes; closer to the smaller

f. charge same sign and magnitude; equidistance to the two charges

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