Alpha Particle Charge: Is it 2x2.50x10^-21?

AI Thread Summary
The charge of an alpha particle, which consists of two protons and two neutrons, is determined by the charges of the protons alone, as neutrons are neutral. The charge of a single proton is approximately 1.60x10^-19 Coulombs. Therefore, to find the total charge of the alpha particle, the charge of the proton must be multiplied by two, resulting in a total charge of approximately 3.20x10^-19 Coulombs. The initial confusion arose from an incorrect value for the charge of an electron, which is actually -1.602 x 10^-19 Coulombs. The correct approach confirms that the charge of the alpha particle is indeed 3.20x10^-19 C.
randomss444
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Homework Statement



What is the charge of an alpha particle?

Charge of electron = 2.50x10^-21

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Would you have to multipy 2.50x10^-21 x 2 to get the charge?
 
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randomss444 said:

The Attempt at a Solution


Would you have to multipy 2.50x10^-21 x 2 to get the charge?

The charge of an electron is 1.6x10-19C. Use that instead.
 
randomss444 said:
Charge of electron = 2.50x10^-21
Where does that number come from and what are the units? I ask because I thought the charge of an electron is -1.602 x 10^-19 Coulombs.

randomss444 said:
What is the charge of an alpha particle?
An alpha particle is two protons and two neutrons. Only the protons have charge so...
 
Okay the charge of the proton is 1.60x10^-19 C. What I am asking is what is the charge of an alpha particle. Do you have to multiple the charge by 2 because there are two protons? Or is the charge just 1.60x10^-19 C.


Thanks
 
Yes, you would have to multiply by two.
 

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