Calculating Copper Cu Charge Density

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the charge density of copper (Cu) based on its atomic mass and density. Participants explore the concept of charge density and the necessary calculations involved, including the conversion of atomic mass to kilograms and the implications of these calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how to calculate the charge density of copper, providing its atomic mass and density while assuming one electron per atom.
  • Another participant requests a definition of charge density, indicating a need for conceptual clarity.
  • A participant defines charge density as the number of electrons per unit volume.
  • Further, a participant proposes calculating the number of copper atoms in a 1m³ volume to facilitate the charge density calculation.
  • One participant presents a calculation converting atomic mass to kilograms and subsequently calculating the number of atoms per cubic meter, but questions the result compared to a reference from Wikipedia.
  • The same participant inquires about the origin and units of the factor used in their atomic mass conversion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty regarding the calculations and the expected values for charge density, with no consensus reached on the correct approach or results.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions about the conversion factors used and the assumptions regarding the number of electrons per atom, which may affect the calculations.

j-lee00
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How do I work out the charge density of Copper Cu, if


atomic mass =63.5
Density = 8920 kgm^-3

Assume 1 electron per cu atom.
 
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j-lee00 said:
How do I work out the charge density of Copper Cu, if


atomic mass =63.5
Density = 8920 kgm^-3

Assume 1 electron per cu atom.

Can you define charge density?
 
number of electrons per unit volume
 
j-lee00 said:
number of electrons per unit volume

OK, so assume, say 1m3. How many atoms of copper are there in this volume?
 
To convert atomic mass to kg, I do

63.5 x 1.66^10-27 = 1.0541 x 10^-25kg

Then

8920 kgm^-3 / 1.0541 x 10^-25kg = 8.462195238 x10^28m^-3

but it should be around 10^9 says wikepedia?
 
j-lee00 said:
To convert atomic mass to kg, I do

63.5 x 1.66^10-27 = 1.0541 x 10^-25kg

Then

8920 kgm^-3 / 1.0541 x 10^-25kg = 8.462195238 x10^28m^-3

but it should be around 10^9 says wikepedia?

Where does the 1.66 x 10-27 come from? (does that have any units?)
 
Last edited:

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