Purchase Solution

Equilibrium between gravity and electrostatic field

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

Two dust particles each of mass 13 ug (10^-6) are floating on a gentle stream of air. what (equal) positive charge would each dust particle have to carry in order that their electrostatic repulsion should exactly balance their gravitational attraction?

What is the electrostatic potential energy of the two dust particles each carrying the charge you calculated above if they are 1.0 cm apart?

What is the gravitational potential energy of the two dust particles due to their mutual gravitational attraction, at the same separation of 1.0 cm?

Comment on the values that you obtained above, making reference to the conventions you used regarding the zeros of electrostatic and gravitational potential energy. What is the total potential energy of the system and how does the total potential energy of the system change as the separation of the particles is increased or decreased? What is the significance of this in terms of the forces acting on the particles?

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

This solution determines the equilibrium between gravity and an electrostatic field.

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Variables in Science Experiments

How well do you understand variables? Test your knowledge of independent (manipulated), dependent (responding), and controlled variables with this 10 question quiz.

Classical Mechanics

This quiz is designed to test and improve your knowledge on Classical Mechanics.

Intro to the Physics Waves

Some short-answer questions involving the basic vocabulary of string, sound, and water waves.

Introduction to Nanotechnology/Nanomaterials

This quiz is for any area of science. Test yourself to see what knowledge of nanotechnology you have. This content will also make you familiar with basic concepts of nanotechnology.

The Moon

Test your knowledge of moon phases and movement.