Question

Two point charges, Q1 and Q2, are separated by a distance R. If the magnitudes of both charges are halved and their separation is also halved, what happens to the electrical force that each charge exerts on the other one?a.) It increases by a factor of 8.
b.) It remains the same.
c.) It increases by a factor of 2.
d.) It increases by a factor of 16.
e.) It increases by a factor of 4.

Answer 1

Answer:

It remains the same.                                          

Explanation:

The electrical force between two charges is given by :

$F=\dfrac{kQ_1Q_2}{R^2}$

Where

$Q_1\ and\ Q_2$ are two point charges

R is the distance between charges

If the magnitudes of both charges are halved and their separation is also halved, new force is given by :

$F'=k\dfrac{Q_1'Q_2'}{R'^2}$

$F'=k\dfrac{Q_1/2Q_2/2}{(R/2)^2}$

$F'=\dfrac{kQ_qQ_2}{R^2}$

$F'=F$

So, the new force remains the same as that of the previous force. Hence, the correct option is (b).