In the figure below, the electric field lines for two charged particles are shown. The lower particle has charge
q1,
while the upper particle has charge
q2.
A particle with charge q2 is above a particle with charge q1. The field lines from q2 emanate outward. On its top, twelve lines curve away from q2 toward infinity. On its bottom, six lines curve down and away from q2, then bend to curve in toward q1, terminating on q1.
(a)
Which charge is larger in magnitude?
q1q2 The charges are equal in magnitude.
(b)
What is the sign of
q1?
positivenegative The magnitude is zero.
(c)
What is the sign of
q2?
positivenegative The magnitude is zero.
