Question

Consider the arrangement of two fixed point charges, equal in magnitude, shown in the figure. Which of the following statements are correct for the initial motion of a third charge if it is released from rest in the vicinity of the two charges shown?
True False  A positive charge at point c will accelerate toward the lower-left.
True False  A negative charge at point a will accelerate toward the lower-right.
True False  A positive charge at point e will accelerate down.
True False  A positive charge at point d will accelerate up.
True False  A negative charge at point b will accelerate down.

Answer 1

Note - Like charges repel each other and unlike charges attract each other. For example - a negative charge will pull a positive charge but will push a negative charge.

A positive charge at point c will accelerate toward the lower-left.

False - The charge will move up

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A negative charge at point a will accelerate toward the lower-right.

False - The charge will move downward

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A positive charge at point e will accelerate down

True - The positive charge in figure will push positive charge at e.

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A positive charge at point d will accelerate up.

False - It should move down because of negative charge (unlike charges)

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A negative charge at point b will accelerate down.

True - The negative charge will push the charge down and positive charge will also pull the charge down. so net direction is down.