How Can You Measure the Charge of a Molecule?

In summary, the speaker is facing an engineering problem and is trying to find a way to measure the charge of a molecule. They know the electric field they are applying, but are unsure of how to physically measure the charge. Some suggestions have been made, such as using HPLC, but the speaker is wondering if there are any other methods. The expert notes that the question may not make much sense since molecules are typically electrically neutral.
  • #1
chusifer
7
0
so...i have some crazy engineering problem. anyway, part of the problem is how do i measure the charge of a molecule? i need to find the force, F = qE. i kno the electric field i am applying, but how can i physically measure the charge of the molecule? some people thought of using HPLC (high pressure liquid chromatography) which would allow for a comparison of charge against a known molecule. but...im just wondering if there's any other way to do it. thanks
 
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  • #2
chusifer said:
so...i have some crazy engineering problem. anyway, part of the problem is how do i measure the charge of a molecule? i need to find the force, F = qE. i kno the electric field i am applying, but how can i physically measure the charge of the molecule? some people thought of using HPLC (high pressure liquid chromatography) which would allow for a comparison of charge against a known molecule. but...im just wondering if there's any other way to do it. thanks
You haven't stated the problem clearly. Are you talking about a dipole molecule (like water)? Since molecules are normally electrically neutral your question doesn't make much sense.

AM
 
  • #3


There are a few different methods that can be used to measure the charge of a molecule. One common method is to use electrophoresis, which involves applying an electric field to a sample containing the molecule and measuring the movement of the molecule in response to the field. This can give an indication of the charge on the molecule.

Another approach is to use mass spectrometry, which can provide information about the mass and charge of a molecule. By comparing the mass and charge of a molecule to a known standard, the charge of the molecule can be determined.

Other techniques that can be used to measure the charge of a molecule include capillary electrophoresis, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and ion-selective electrodes. Each of these methods has its own advantages and limitations, so it may be helpful to consult with a specialist in the field or do some research to determine the best approach for your specific problem.

Overall, there are various techniques that can be used to measure the charge of a molecule, and the best approach will depend on the specific requirements of your engineering problem. It may be helpful to consult with colleagues or experts in the field to determine the most appropriate method for your situation.
 

1. What is charge and why is it important to measure it?

Charge is a fundamental property of matter that describes the amount of electrical force an object exerts or experiences. It is important to measure charge because it helps us understand and predict the behavior of particles and objects in electrical systems.

2. What units are used to measure charge?

The standard unit of charge is the coulomb (C). Other commonly used units include the electron-volt (eV) and the elementary charge (e), which is the charge of a single proton or electron.

3. How can I measure charge in a lab setting?

One way to measure charge in a lab is by using a device called an electrometer, which uses the principle of capacitance to measure the amount of charge on an object. Another method is to use a ballistic galvanometer, which measures the deflection of a needle due to the flow of charge through a circuit.

4. Can charge be negative or positive?

Yes, charge can be either negative or positive. Objects with an excess of electrons have a negative charge, while objects with a deficit of electrons have a positive charge. The type of charge an object possesses depends on the type of particles it contains.

5. How does measuring charge help in the study of electricity and magnetism?

Measuring charge is essential in understanding the relationship between electricity and magnetism. The flow of charge, or current, is what creates a magnetic field, and the movement of charged particles is what generates electricity. By measuring charge, we can better understand and manipulate these phenomena to create useful technologies.

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