Solving Coulomb Barrier: Calculating Energy w/e2 Units

In summary, the Coulomb barrier is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the force of repulsion between two charged particles. It is calculated using the Coulomb force equation and plays a crucial role in nuclear reactions and fusion reactions, as it determines the minimum energy required for particles to interact and fuse. The e2 units are a system of units used to measure electric charge and are commonly used in Coulomb barrier calculations.
  • #1
cwetteland
2
0
OK need some help with units. I am trying calculate the energy to surmount the coulomb barrier. the relationship is basic, but I can't remember how the units of e2 (1.440 ev nm) come about. thanks
 
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  • #2
I can't remember how the units of e2 (1.440 ev nm) come about. thanks
... they don't - that figure is incorrect.
It is ##ke^2## that has dimensions of energy-length.

See http://mypages.iit.edu/~johnsonpo/250310.pdf p1.
 

1. What is Coulomb barrier?

The Coulomb barrier is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the force of repulsion between two charged particles due to their electric charge. It is also known as the electrostatic barrier or the Coulomb force barrier.

2. How is the Coulomb barrier calculated?

The Coulomb barrier is calculated using the Coulomb force equation, which is F = k * (q1 * q2)/r^2, where k is the Coulomb constant, q1 and q2 are the charges of the particles, and r is the distance between them. The energy required to overcome this barrier is then calculated using the formula E = k * (q1 * q2)/r.

3. What are e2 units?

e2 units are a system of units used to measure electric charge. They are defined as the product of the elementary charge (e) and the charge on a proton (e). This unit is commonly used in calculations involving the Coulomb barrier.

4. How does the Coulomb barrier affect nuclear reactions?

The Coulomb barrier plays a crucial role in nuclear reactions, as it determines the minimum energy required for two charged particles to overcome the repulsive force and interact. Without enough energy to overcome this barrier, the reaction will not occur. This barrier also determines the rate of these reactions.

5. How is the Coulomb barrier related to fusion reactions?

The Coulomb barrier is an essential factor in fusion reactions, which involve combining two atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. Since the nuclei are positively charged, they must overcome the Coulomb barrier to come close enough for the strong nuclear force to take effect and fuse them together. The higher the Coulomb barrier, the higher the energy required for fusion to occur.

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