Calculating Electrostatic Repulsion in Nuclear Fission

In summary, when a nucleus with 98 protons undergoes fission, it divides into two smaller spheres each with 49 protons and a radius of 6.38x10^-15 m. The repulsive force pushing these spheres apart can be calculated using the equation F= k (q1q2/d^2), where d represents the distance between the two spheres. The correct solution involves multiplying the radius by 2, since there are now 2 spheres, and setting it up as F= 9E9 (49 x 1.6E-19/2(6.38x10^-15)^2), which results in the correct answer.
  • #1
snash1057
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Homework Statement


At the point of fission, a nucleus with 98 protons is divided into two smaller spheres, each with 49 protons and a radius of 6.38x10^-15 m. What is the repulsive force pushing these two spheres apart

Hint: d ≠ the radius


Homework Equations


F= k (q1q2/d^2)


The Attempt at a Solution


if the radius isn't d then i don't know what is. i have tried multiplying the radius by 2 because there are now 2 spheres and setting it up like

F= 9E9 (49 x 1.6E-19/4.76E-29^2) but that is incorrect
 
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  • #2
snash1057 said:
i have tried multiplying the radius by 2 because there are now 2 spheres
Makes sense to me.
and setting it up like

F= 9E9 (49 x 1.6E-19/4.76E-29^2) but that is incorrect
Redo this more carefully.
 

1. What is Electrostatic Force?

Electrostatic force is a fundamental force of nature that describes the attraction or repulsion between two electrically charged objects. It is caused by the interaction of the electric fields of the two objects.

2. How is Electrostatic Force Calculated?

Electrostatic force is calculated using Coulomb's Law, which states that the force between two charged objects is directly proportional to the product of their charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

3. What are the Units of Electrostatic Force?

The SI unit of electrostatic force is Newtons (N), which is equivalent to kilogram-meter per second squared (kg·m/s²).

4. What Factors Affect Electrostatic Force?

The strength of electrostatic force is affected by the magnitude of the charges on the objects and the distance between them. The closer the objects are, the stronger the force will be. Additionally, the type of material the objects are made of can also affect electrostatic force.

5. How Does Electrostatic Force Impact Everyday Life?

Electrostatic force plays a crucial role in many everyday applications, such as the functioning of batteries and electronic devices, the attraction of dust particles to surfaces, and the operation of printers and photocopiers. It also helps to keep atoms and molecules together, creating the chemical bonds that make up matter.

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