Mid way between two equal and similar charges a third equal and similar charge is placed. Then for d

Question

Mid way between two equal and similar charges a third equal and similar charge is placed. Then for displacements of the third charge parallel to and along the line joining the charges, it will be

Professor PC Thomas Classes · Answer

As long as the two end charges are equal and similar, the middle charge will be in equilibrium whether it is like charge or unlike charge. If it is like charge it will be in stable equilibrium for displacement parallel to the charges. At the same time the middle charge will be in unstable equilibrium for displacements perpendicular to the charges.\ What will be the answer if the middle charge is of opposite nature?\