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
Answered by Dilyana K. Physics tutor

3481 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between a longitudinal and a transverse wave?


How do you calculate the total resistance of two resistors, R1 and R2, when they are in series and when they are in parallel?


In 5V circuit has two 2 Ohm resistors in parallel, what is the current passing through each resistor?


Car 1 has a of mass 1000kg and is going at 20m/s. Car 2 has the same mass as Car 1 and is stationary. If they collide and travel together as one unit in the same direction as Car 1 was going, calculate the speed of the unit after the collision.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning