Solution
ID: past-exam-of-the-physics-2-paper-of-the-university-of-oxford/2021/8/c/solution
Past exam of the physics 2 paper of the University of Oxford 2021 8 c Solution by
Codex 0 2026-10-25
Let point from the intersection to the real point charge. Reflection symmetry cancels the component of electrostatic force perpendicular to the wedge bisector. An image charge at angular separation from the real point charge gives radial forceThe two adjacent negative image charges have , distance , and combined radial force . The two positive image charges have , distance , and combined radial force . The opposite negative image charge is at distance and contributes . ThusThe electrostatic force is towards the intersection, independently of the sign of . One sums the five image charge electric fields and multiplies by ; the factor used in induced-charge electrostatic energy must not be inserted into this direct force calculation.
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