Calculating Electric Force in Bohr Model of Hydrogen Atom

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the electric force between the proton and electron in the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom when the electron is in the n = 1 state. The correct formula to use is Coulomb's Law, F = k * q1 * q2 / r^2, where k is Coulomb's constant, q1 and q2 are the charges of the proton and electron, and r is Bohr's radius for n = 1. The initial confusion arose from mistakenly calculating energy using E = -13.6 eV/n^2 instead of force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's Law
  • Knowledge of fundamental constants such as Coulomb's constant
  • Basic concepts of electric charge
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of Coulomb's Law
  • Learn about Bohr's radius and its significance in atomic physics
  • Explore the differences between energy and force in physics
  • Study the implications of the Bohr model on atomic structure
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Students studying atomic physics, educators teaching the Bohr model, and anyone interested in the fundamental forces in atomic structures.

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Homework Statement


In the Bohr model of a hydrogen atom, what is the magnitude of the electric force exerted between the proton and the electron when the electron is in the n = 1 state?


Homework Equations


E= - 13.6 eV/ n^2


The Attempt at a Solution



I simply plugged in the value for n and got an answer of -13.6 eV. I do not understand why this is incorrect. This is an online homework assignment and asks for the answer in N. Is this where I am making my mistake? Or am I using the wrong formula?
 
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You calculated an energy. The problem asks for a force. Force and energy are different.

What equation have you been given that can be used to calculate the force between two charges?
 
ohh.. so i just use F= kq1q2/r^2

and since it is in the n=1 state, i would use Bohr's radius for r... correct?
 
Yes, that's right.
 
Thank you!..
 

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