Electrical stability of an atom

In summary, the electric potential energy of the water molecule is -5.33 eV, while the carbon monoxide molecule's potential energy is -2.04 eV. Based on this, it can be concluded that the carbon monoxide molecule is more electrically stable due to its lower energy value.
  • #1
lxman
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Homework Statement


As shown in class the electric potential energy of a water molecule is -5.33 eV. Which molecule is more electrically stable, H2O or CO? Why?


Homework Equations


EPE=Kc*q1*q2/r12


The Attempt at a Solution



The water molecule's EPE is -5.33 eV. The carbon monoxide molecule's EPE is -2.04 eV. Am I correct in believing that the carbon monoxide molecule is more stable, as the magnitude of its charge is lower?
 
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  • #2
The question has do do with potential energy, not charge.
 
  • #3
Alright then, let's see . . .

eV is a unit of energy. Therefore would I be correct in concluding that the CO molecule has a quantity of energy closer to zero and therefore it would be more electrically stable?
 

1. What is electrical stability of an atom?

The electrical stability of an atom is the state in which the number of electrons in the outermost energy level, also known as the valence shell, is equal to the maximum number of electrons that can occupy that shell.

2. Why is electrical stability important for atoms?

Electrical stability is important for atoms because it determines the chemical properties and reactivity of an element. Atoms with a stable electron configuration are less likely to undergo chemical reactions, while those with unstable configurations are more reactive and likely to form bonds with other atoms.

3. How is electrical stability achieved in an atom?

Electrical stability in an atom is achieved when the number of electrons in the valence shell is equal to the number of electrons needed to fill that shell. This can be achieved through the gain, loss, or sharing of electrons with other atoms, forming chemical bonds.

4. What factors affect the electrical stability of an atom?

The number of protons and electrons in an atom, as well as the arrangement of electrons in the different energy levels, can affect the electrical stability of an atom. Additionally, the presence of other atoms and their electron configurations can also impact the stability of an atom.

5. How does electrical stability relate to the periodic table?

The periodic table is organized based on the electron configurations of elements, with elements in the same group having similar outer electron configurations and therefore similar chemical properties. This organization helps to predict the electrical stability of different elements and their reactivity with other atoms.

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