Answer:
q₁ = + 1.25 nC
Explanation:
Theory of electrical forces
Because the particle q₃ is close to two other electrically charged particles, it will experience two electrical forces and the solution of the problem is of a vector nature.
Known data
q₃=5 nC
q₂=- 3 nC
d₁₃= 2 cm
d₂₃ = 4 cm
Graphic attached
The directions of the individual forces exerted by q1 and q₂ on q₃ are shown in the attached figure.
For the net force on q3 to be zero F₁₃ and F₂₃ must have the same magnitude and opposite direction, So, the charge q₁ must be positive(q₁+).
The force (F₁₃) of q₁ on q₃ is repulsive because the charges have equal signs ,then. F₁₃ is directed to the left (-x).
The force (F₂₃) of q₂ on q₃ is attractive because the charges have opposite signs. F₂₃ is directed to the right (+x)
Calculation of q1
F₁₃ = F₂₃
We divide by (k * q3) on both sides of the equation
q₁ = + 1.25 nC
