Charges of +3 µc and –5 µc are 2 mm from each other. the –5 µc charge is replaced with a +5 µc charge. how will the electrical force between the charges compare with the original force? same force, but in the opposite direction same force, but in the same direction greater force, but in the opposite direction greater force, but in the same direction

Same force, but in the opposite direction.

Explanation:

We know that Coulomb's force between two point charges is:

F = kq₁q₂/r²

k = Coulomb's constant = 9 x 10⁹ Nm²C⁻²

q = Charge on the particles

r = Distance between them

F₁ = k(+3µC x -5µC )/ (2 x 10⁻³)² = -3.375 x 10⁴ N

F₂ = k(+3µC x +5µC )/ (2 x 10⁻³)² = 3.375 x 10⁴ N

If the sign of the charge is changed then the sign of force also changes which indicates that the direction of force becomes opposite. Previously, the charges were positive and negative so there was a force of attraction between them. Sign of one charge is reversed i.e. +5µC  from -5µC  and now, there is force of repulsion between +3µC  and +5µC . The magnitude of the force does not change.

Same force, but in the opposite direction.

Explanation: