What is 'K' in K=1/4pi Epsilon 0?

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In summary, the conversation is about atomic physics and determining the size of a nucleus by shooting alpha particles at it. They use the formula 1/2mv2 = kQq/r, where k is known as the Coulomb constant and is equal to 1/4πε0. The electric constant, also known as the permittivity of vacuum, is represented by ε0 and has a value of 8.988 x 10^9 Nm^2/C^2. This information can be found on the website provided.
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kenshi64
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Hey So for those that don't know, I'm reading this from Atomic Physics, basically where they teach you how the size of a nucleus was determined by shooting alpha particles at it. due to repulsion an alpha particle can get only 'so-close' to nucleus(they're both positively charged), and the the so-close is labelled as point P, the closest to the nucleus and alpha gets.

So here's a formula they teach us to use:

1/2mv2 = kQq/r

What is k called? what is the name of this constant, and what is it equal to since I was told it was the electric constant and went about solving it with that value, but at the back in the answer section they used the value 9x10^9!
Thanks guy! :D
 
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1. What is the significance of 'K' in the equation K=1/4pi Epsilon 0?

'K' represents the Coulomb's constant, which is a proportionality constant in the Coulomb's Law equation. It is also known as the electric constant or the permittivity of free space. Its value is approximately 9x10^9 Nm^2/C^2.

2. Why is 'K' equal to 1/4pi in the equation K=1/4pi Epsilon 0?

The value of 1/4pi is derived from the geometric relationship between the electric field and the distance between two charged particles in Coulomb's Law. It ensures that the equation produces consistent and accurate results.

3. Is 'K' a universal constant in all equations related to electricity?

No, 'K' is only a constant in Coulomb's Law. In other equations, such as the equation for electric potential, 'K' is not present. Each equation has its own constant that is specific to its application.

4. How does the value of 'K' affect the strength of the electric field?

The value of 'K' is directly proportional to the strength of the electric field. This means that as the value of 'K' increases, the strength of the electric field also increases. This is because 'K' represents the permittivity of free space, which is a measure of how easily electric fields can form in a vacuum.

5. Can the value of 'K' change in different situations?

Yes, the value of 'K' can change depending on the medium in which the electric field is present. In vacuum, 'K' has a fixed value of approximately 9x10^9 Nm^2/C^2. However, in other mediums, such as air or water, the value of 'K' can vary slightly due to the presence of other particles that can affect the electric field.

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