Coulomb's Law: Practice Problem & Solution

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Coulomb's Law. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Initially, \( F = k \frac{q^2}{r^2}\). When 50% of the charge of one sphere is transferred to the other, the charges become \(0.5q\) and

\(1.5q\). The new force is \(F' = k \frac{(0.5q)(1.5q)}{r^2} = 0.75 F = \frac{3}{4}F\).