Two identical objects have a charge of magnitude q. If r is the distance bethween them, what should their mass be so that the objects are balanced.

Our first step in this physics problem should be to identify all of the forces that act on the objects. There are two forces here,electrical and gravitational. Since both objects have the same charge in magnitude(like charges), the electrical force should be repulsive and equal to F(el) = (k*q^2)/ r^2. 

The gravitational force, on the other hand, is always attractive and equal to F(gr) = (G*m^2)/r^2. In orde the objects to be balanced, F(el) = F(gr). Therefore, 

(kq^2)/ r^2 = (Gm^2)/r^2 

m = (square roof of (k/G) ) * q kg.

DK

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using nuclear power stations rather than gas-fired power stations to generate electricity. (2 Marks)


Which state can a substance NOT be in if heat transfer through convection is occurring?


How are force and work related?


A car travelling at 14 m/s has to make an emergency stop so applies the brakes and it takes 1.5s to become stationary. What distance has the van travelled in that time?