Practicing Success
A charge q is placed at the center of the line joining two equal charges Q. The system of the three charges will be in equilibrium if q is equal to : |
$-\frac{Q}{2}$ $-\frac{Q}{4}$ $+\frac{Q}{4}$ $+\frac{Q}{2}$ |
$-\frac{Q}{4}$ |
Since, q is at the centre of two charges Q and Q, net force on it is zero, whatever the magnitude and sign of charge on it. For the equilibrium of Q, q should attract it. Simultaneously these attractions and repulsions should be equal. $\frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q Q}{r^2}=\frac{1}{4 \pi \varepsilon_0} \frac{Q q}{(r / 2)^2}$ or $q=\frac{Q}{4}$ ∴ correct option is (b) |