Three identical particles of mass m=6.1 grams and charge q=3.1 microCoulombs are

Question

Three identical particles of mass m=6.1 grams and charge q=3.1 microCoulombs are assembled from infinity to form an equilateral triangle with sides of length d=10.9 cm as shown in the figure.

Three identical particles of mass m=6.1 grams and charge q=3.1 microCoulombs are assembled from infinity to form an equilateral triangle with sides of length d=10.9 cm as shown in the figure. Let W be the work required to assemble the triangle of charges by the following method. Charge A is first nailed down. Charge B is then moved from infinity and nailed down at a distance d from Charge A. Finally Charge C is moved in from infinity and nailed down at the apex of the triangle. What is the total work against the repulsive forces to assemble the triangle in units of Joules?

Explanation / Answer

when the charges are at inifinite distsance

electric potentai energy of the system, U1 = 0


when they are placed at corners of equililateral triangle,

electric potential energy of the system,

U2 = 3*k*q^2/d = 2.38 J



workdone = U2 - U1 = 2.38 J

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