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Reviewed CSCA Physics question · Standard

Two point charges, +2 μC and +3 μC, are separated by 0.5 m in vacuum. What is the magnitude of the electrostatic force between them? (k = 9 × 10⁹ N·m²/C²)

  1. 0.216 N
  2. 0.432 N
  3. 0.864 N
  4. 1.728 N
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer

A. 0.216 N

Principle or equation

Coulomb's law: F = k |q1 q2| / r².

Why this answer is correct

F = (9×10⁹) * (2×10⁻⁶) * (3×10⁻⁶) / (0.5)² = (9×10⁹ * 6×10⁻¹²) / 0.25 = (54×10⁻³) / 0.25 = 0.216 N.

Example

For 1 μC and 1 μC at 1 m, F = 9×10⁻³ N.

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