Mid way between the two equal and similar charges, we place the third equal and similar charge. Which of the following statements is correct ?

Question

Mid way between the two equal and similar charges, we place the third equal and similar charge. Which of the following statements is correct ? (A) The third charge experiences a net force inclined to the line joining the charges (B) The third charge is in stable equilibrium (C) The third charge is in unstable equilibrium (D) The third charge experiences a net force perpendicular to the line joining the charges

Tardigrade Admin · Accepted Answer

The net force on the third charge is zero. However, when disturbed, the middle charge cannot return to the state of equilibrium. Because, the net force will not be zero any where except the mid-point.

Q. Mid way between the two equal and similar charges, we place the third equal and similar charge. Which of the following statements is correct ?

The third charge experiences a net force inclined to the line joining the charges

The third charge is in stable equilibrium

The third charge is in unstable equilibrium

The third charge experiences a net force perpendicular to the line joining the charges

The net force on the third charge is zero. However, when disturbed, the middle charge cannot return to the state of equilibrium. Because, the net force will not be zero any where except the mid-point.