Calculate the mass of unknown nucleus

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the mass of an unknown nucleus using Newton's Gravitational Law. The context includes a hydrogen nucleus and an unknown nucleus positioned at a specific distance, with given values for mass, charge, and gravitational force.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster seeks assistance in rearranging the gravitational force equation to find the mass of the unknown nucleus. Some participants discuss the application of Newton's law of gravity and provide a rearranged formula for one of the masses.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to rearrange equations and check calculations. One participant mentions having solved the problem, while others focus on clarifying the rearrangement process and ensuring accuracy in their figures.

Contextual Notes

Participants note issues with calculations, including potential errors in signs and powers, indicating a need for careful verification of mathematical steps.

james11
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OK having a slight problem finding the mass of the unknown nucleus.

Any help rearranging to find this using Newton's Gravitational law.

A hydrogen nucleus and a nucleus of an ‘unknown’ atom are stationary, 5.0 x 10 ^-10 m apart. The mass of the hydrogen nucleus is mh = 1.7 x 10 - 27kg and the electric charge of the hydrogen nucleus is e = 1.6 x 10 ^-19 C. You may assume that the electric constant ke, = 9.0 x 10^9N m2 C-2 and that the gravitational constant G = 6.7 x 10^-11N m2 kg -2.

The magnitude of the gravitational force between the hydrogen nucleus and the ‘unknown’ nucleus is 9.3 x 10 ^-45 N. State whether this force is attractive or repulsive. Calculate the mass of the ‘unknown’ nucleus that is necessary to give a force of this magnitude.

Thanks in advance

any help would be great!

J
 
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There are many other parts to the question that i have worked . I just need help on rearranging the equation for this part.
 
james11 said:
There are many other parts to the question that i have worked . I just need help on rearranging the equation for this part.
I assume you know Newton's law of gravity:
[tex]F = G\frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2}[/tex]

This can be rearranged to solve for one of the masses:
[tex]m_2 = \frac{F r^2}{G m_1}[/tex]
 
Yes I know Newtons Law. I already rearranged to this equation but my figures don't seem to add up.

I have tried a few times now with my calculator and i was missing a minus sign on one the powers.

I have solved the problem

Thanks for your help
 

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