2 slow moving hydrogen atoms - distance to start interaction

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interaction between two slow-moving hydrogen atoms, specifically focusing on the distance at which they begin to attract each other and the conditions under which acceleration can be observed. The scope includes theoretical considerations of electromagnetic forces and molecular formation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that theoretically, hydrogen atoms attract each other at all distances due to the electromagnetic force, although the strength of this attraction diminishes rapidly with distance, following a 1/r^6 relationship.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the distance at which measurable acceleration occurs, suggesting that the formation of a molecule is the end goal of the interaction.
  • A further response questions the threshold for measurable acceleration, proposing a specific value of 1 m/s^2.
  • There is a request for online references regarding the 1/r^6 calculation related to atomic interactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the specifics of attraction and measurable acceleration, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a consensus on the exact distance or conditions for interaction.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the assumptions regarding measurement limits or the specific conditions under which acceleration becomes observable.

Buckeye
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At what distance do 2 hydrogen atoms (not ions) begin to attract each other?

No, this is not a homework question. I am 58.
 
Last edited:
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Well, in theory there's no distance where that begins or ends; they attract at all distances since the electromagnetic force works at all distances.
But the attraction drops off rapidly; in proportion to 1/r^6, where r is the distance.
 
Guess I should have specified at what distance would acceleration be observed?
I'm assuming the 2 hydrogen atoms will form a molecule at the end of the cycle.
 
That depends on how small an acceleration you can measure.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
That depends on how small an acceleration you can measure.

Not sure. How about 1 m/s^2
 
alxm said:
Well, in theory there's no distance where that begins or ends; they attract at all distances since the electromagnetic force works at all distances.
But the attraction drops off rapidly; in proportion to 1/r^6, where r is the distance.

Do you know any online references for the 1/r^6 calculation? Thanks
 

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