Question
Two small balls having equal positive charge q Coulomb are suspended by two insulating strings of equal length L metre from a hook fixed to a stand. The whole set up is taken in a satellite into space where there is no gravity. What is the angle between the two strings and the tension in each string?
Solution
In a satellite, there is condition of weightlessness.
Therefore, mg = 0.
On account of electrostatic force of repulsion between the balls, the strings would become horizontal.
Therefore, angle between the strings = 180°.
Also, tension in each string = force of repulsion