Differentiating electrostatic force

[Saxby]

Homework Statement

Obtain an expression for the potiential energy between to particles in an ionic bond at radius r₀

Homework Equations

Coloumb's laws: F = (-k * q₁ * q₂)/r^-1

The Attempt at a Solution

I think that if i do U = r0∫0 F(r)dr = [k * q1 * q2 * r-1]r00 = k * q1 * q2 * r0-1, Then that's the answer, but I'm not sure and i don't have the actual answer available. Any help would be appreciated :)

 

[tms]

You'd better take a second look at Coulomb's law.

 

[BruceW]

well, if you want to get an answer using the (non-quantum) coulomb interaction, then you are on the right track. Your answer is not quite right. Think about what the distance is, when the potential is zero. (There is a convention to this). And this choice will influence your decision of the limits of your integral.