A bead that carries a positive charge +q is placed on a rod directly between two

Question

A bead that carries a positive charge +q is placed on a rod directly between two identical negative charges as shown. Does this configuration illustrate stable or unstable equilibrium? Explain your answer. Q1 and Q2 are separated by 1 meter as shown. A positive charge +q is placed at a distance "a" to the left of Ql. Find the distance "a" such that the net force on the +q charge is zero. (use the numeric entry mode to enter your value of a in units of meters - you must push send after entering your value - the decimal point is under the "7" key)

Explanation / Answer

8. This configuration illustrates stable equilibrium.Because the forces acting on +q due to the remaining two identical charges is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction.So net force acting on +q is same. Hence it is a stable equilibrium. 7. According to the given condition                          Force on +q due to Q1 = Force on +q due to Q2                                            KqQ1/a^2 = KqQ2/(a+1)^2                                          [(a+1)/a]^2 = Q2/Q1                                            [(a+1)/a]^2 = (9 C/1 C)                                            [(a+1)/a]^2 = 9                                                  (a+1)/a  = 3                                                      a + 1 = 3a                                                          2a = 1                                                            a = 0.5 m

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