The figure shows two charged particles on x-axis. The particles are free to move. However, at one point, a third charged particle can be placed such that all three particles would be in equilibrium. 1. Is the third particle positively or negatively charged? 2. Is the point the third particle is placed to the left, right or between the two charged?

Question

The figure shows two charged particles on x-axis. The particles are free to move. However, at one point, a third charged particle can be placed such that all three particles would be in equilibrium. 1. Is the third particle positively or negatively charged? 2. Is the point the third particle is placed to the left, right or between the two charged? (A) negative, to their right (B) positive, between them (C) negative, to their left (D) positive, to their right

Tardigrade Admin · Accepted Answer

For the equilibrium the net force on the third charged particle must be zero. This can be possible only when positively charged particle is placed between the given charges.