select the correct answer.\nthe electric force between two charged balloons is 0.12 newtons. if the distance…

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Coulomb's law

The electric force $F$ between two charges is inversely - proportional to the square of the distance $r$ between them, i.e., $F = \frac{kq_1q_2}{r^2}$. Let the initial force be $F_1=\frac{kq_1q_2}{r_1^2}=0.12$ N.

Step2: Analyze the new - distance situation

The new distance $r_2=\frac{r_1}{2}$. The new force $F_2=\frac{kq_1q_2}{r_2^2}=\frac{kq_1q_2}{(\frac{r_1}{2})^2}=\frac{4kq_1q_2}{r_1^2}$.

Step3: Calculate the new force

Since $F_1 = \frac{kq_1q_2}{r_1^2}=0.12$ N, then $F_2 = 4F_1$. Substituting the value of $F_1$, we get $F_2=4\times0.12 = 0.48$ N.

Answer:

D. 0.48 newtons