Electrostatic force between sodium ion and a chloride ion

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electrostatic force between sodium ions and chloride ions in solid sodium chloride (NaCl). Participants confirm the use of Coulomb's Law, expressed as F = k(q1*q2)/r², where q1 and q2 represent the charges of the ions, specifically the charge of an electron (1.602 x 10^-19 C). The separation distance between the ions is approximately 0.28 nm (2.8 x 10^-10 m), leading to a calculated force of approximately 2.9 x 10^-9 N. Clarifications regarding the charge states of the ions are also addressed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Coulomb's Law for electrostatic force calculation
  • Understanding of ionic charges in sodium and chloride ions
  • Basic knowledge of scientific notation and unit conversions
  • Familiarity with constants such as the elementary charge (1.602 x 10^-19 C)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of Coulomb's Law
  • Learn about ionic bonding and the properties of ionic compounds
  • Explore the concept of electrostatic potential energy
  • Investigate the effects of distance on electrostatic forces in different materials
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in chemistry and physics, particularly those studying ionic compounds and electrostatics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to ionic interactions.

yjk91
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Homework Statement


In solid sodium chloride (table salt), chloride ions have one more electron than they have protons, and sodium ions have one more proton than they have electrons. These ions are separated by about 0.28 nm. Calculate the electrostatic force between a sodium ion and a chloride ion.

a) magnitude

b) direction

The Attempt at a Solution




e = 1.602 * 10^-19
i think you use this as q1 * q2?
and use the F = k(q1*q2)/r^2
i am not sure how to appropriated this problem
 
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hi yjk91! :smile:

(try using the X2 icon just above the Reply box :wink:)

yes, that's fine …

both q1 and q2 will be the charge of an electron :smile:
 
does it matter when it says that the chloride ions have one more electron than they have protons and sodium ions have one more proton than they have electrons?

so the answer would be k * (1.602*10-19)2 / (2.8*10-18)2 = 2.9e-9??
 
hi yjk91! :smile:

(just got up :zzz: …)
yjk91 said:
does it matter when it says that the chloride ions have one more electron than they have protons and sodium ions have one more proton than they have electrons?

sorry, i don't understand what your question is :confused:
so the answer would be k * (1.602*10-19)2 / (2.8*10-18)2

your top line is correct :smile:, i don't understand the 10-18 in your bottom line :redface:
 

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