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Net Electric Force Calculator

Net Electric Force Formula:

\[ F_{net} = \sum \left( k \cdot \frac{q_1 \cdot q_i}{r_i^2} \right) \]

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1. What is Net Electric Force?

Definition: The net electric force is the vector sum of all Coulomb forces acting on a charge due to other charges in the system.

Purpose: This calculator helps determine the total electrostatic force experienced by a charge in the presence of multiple other charges.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Coulomb's Law:

\[ F_{net} = \sum \left( k \cdot \frac{q_1 \cdot q_i}{r_i^2} \right) \]

Where:

  • \( F_{net} \) — Net electric force (Newtons)
  • \( k \) — Coulomb's constant (8.99 × 10⁹ N·m²/C²)
  • \( q_1 \) — Main charge (Coulombs)
  • \( q_i \) — Other charges (Coulombs)
  • \( r_i \) — Distance between q₁ and q_i (meters)

Explanation: The calculator sums the forces from each charge pair to determine the total force on the main charge.

3. Importance of Net Force Calculation

Details: Calculating net electric force is fundamental in electrostatics, helping predict charge behavior in electric fields and designing electrical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

  • Enter the main charge value (can be positive or negative)
  • Enter other charges as comma-separated values
  • Enter corresponding distances in meters (must match number of charges)
  • Distances must be > 0

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Coulomb's constant?
A: It's a proportionality constant in Coulomb's Law, approximately 8.99 × 10⁹ N·m²/C².

Q2: How do I represent negative charges?
A: Simply enter negative values for charges (e.g., -1.6e-19 for an electron).

Q3: What units should I use?
A: Charges in Coulombs (C), distances in meters (m), result is in Newtons (N).

Q4: Does this calculate direction of force?
A: This calculates magnitude only. Direction depends on charge signs and geometry.

Q5: What if charges are at different angles?
A: This calculator assumes colinear forces. For 2D/3D systems, vector components would be needed.

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