Question #42386

A diatomic molecule is modeled as a rigid massless rod of length $L$ with two point masses: $m_1 = m$ with charge $+q$, and $m_2 = 2m$ with charge $-q$. The molecule lies on a smooth horizontal insulating table inside a box. Mass $m_1$ is hinged to the floor of the box. A uniform electric field $\vec{E} = E \hat{i}$ exists throughout the space. The box is given a constant horizontal acceleration $\vec{a} = a \hat{i}$. Initially, the rod is held at rest (relative to the box) parallel to the positive $y$-axis. It is then released. Find the magnitude of the force exerted by the hinge on $m_1$ in the $x$-direction at the instant the rod aligns with the negative $x$-axis.