Answer:
q = 7.542 x 10⁻⁷ C = 754.2 nC
Step-by-step explanation:
The Coulomb's Law gives the magnitude of the force of attraction or repulsion between two charges:
F = kq₁q₂/r²
where,
F = Force of attraction or repulsion = 0.2 N
k = Coulomb's Constant = 9 x 10⁹ N m²/C²
r = distance between charges = 16 cm = 0.16 m
q₁ = magnitude of 1st charge
q₂ = magnitude of 2nd charge
Since, both charges are said to be equal here.
q₁ = q₂ = q
Therefore,
0.2 N = (9 x 10⁹ N m²/C²)q²/(0.16 m)²
(0.2 N)(0.16 m)²/(9 x 10⁹ N m²/C²) = q²
q = √(5.88 x 10⁻¹³ C²)
q = 7.542 x 10⁻⁷ C = 754.2 nC