We study the three point charges shown in the figure. They are held at the corne

Question

We study the three point charges shown in the figure. They are held at the corners of an equilateral triangle with = 0.1 m. What is the electric potential energy (in J) of the system of three point charges? Use for the three charges q1 = +2Q,q2 = 3Q, and q3 = +Q, where Q = 101 nC. Hint: The solution is done in steps. Assume that you first bring one of the point charges from a very large (infinite) distance to its position, then repeat this procedure for the second and third point charges.

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Explanation / Answer

Total potential energy= kq1q2/L + kq2q3/L+ kq1q3/L

q1 = +2Q,q2 = 3Q, and q3 = +Q,

potential energy=k(2Q)(-3Q)/L + k(-3Q)(Q)/L+ k(2Q)(Q)/L

potential energy=-6kQ2/L -3kQ2/L+2kQ2/L

Potential energy=-7kQ2/L

Potential energy=-7(9x109)(101x10-9)/0.1

Potential energy=-63630j

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