What is the magnitude of the force on a calcium ion

In summary, a large electric field of 1.0x10^7 N/C in a cell membrane causes ions to move through the cell wall. The force on a calcium ion with charge +e can be calculated using the equation F = Eq, where E is the field strength and q is the charge of the ion. Since +e is equivalent to 1 e-, the magnitude of the force on the calcium ion would be 1.6x10^-19 C multiplied by 1.0x10^7 N/C, which is not equal to 1.0x10^7 N, as originally thought.
  • #1
robera1
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0

Homework Statement


Large electric fields in cell membranes cause ions to move through the cell wall. The field strength in a typical membrane is 1.0x10^7 N/C. What is the magnitude of the force on a calcium ion with charge +e?


Homework Equations


E = F/q > F = Eq


The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I thought that +e = ~1, so F = 1.0x10^7(1)
So, F would equal 1.0x10^7, but that is not correct.

Can anyone help me?
 
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  • #2
What is +e in C? F=Eq is correct.
 
  • #3
Is +e the same as e-? Because 1 e- is equal to 1.6x10^-19 C, right?
So, is that the same for +e?
 

1. What is the definition of "magnitude of the force" in relation to a calcium ion?

The magnitude of the force refers to the strength or intensity of the force acting on a calcium ion. It is a measure of how much the calcium ion is being pushed or pulled by other particles or objects.

2. How is the magnitude of the force on a calcium ion calculated?

The magnitude of the force on a calcium ion is calculated using the equation F = qE, where F is the force, q is the charge of the calcium ion, and E is the electric field strength. This equation is based on Coulomb's Law, which states that the force between two charged particles is directly proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

3. What factors affect the magnitude of the force on a calcium ion?

The magnitude of the force on a calcium ion is affected by the charge of the ion, the strength of the electric field, and the distance between the ion and other charged particles. Other factors that may influence the force include the presence of other nearby ions or molecules, as well as the dielectric constant of the surrounding medium.

4. How does the magnitude of the force on a calcium ion affect its movement?

The magnitude of the force on a calcium ion determines the direction and speed of its movement. If the force is strong, the ion will experience a greater acceleration and move more quickly. If the force is weaker, the ion will move more slowly. The direction of the force also determines the direction of the ion's movement.

5. Can the magnitude of the force on a calcium ion be manipulated or controlled?

Yes, the magnitude of the force on a calcium ion can be manipulated by changing the strength of the electric field or the distance between the ion and other charged particles. This can be done using various techniques such as applying a voltage, using magnetic fields, or adjusting the concentration of ions in a solution. However, the magnitude of the force is ultimately determined by the properties of the ion and its environment.

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