Electrostatics and nuclear force problem

[hawkeye1029]

Homework Statement

Two protons in an atomic nucleus are typically separated by a distance of 2x10^-15 m. The electric repulsion force between the protons is huge, but the attractive nuclear force is even stronger and keeps the nucleus from bursting apart. What is the magnitude of the electric force between two protons separated by
2.00x10^-15.

Homework Equations

F = (kq₁q₂) / r²

The Attempt at a Solution

I have no experience in electrostatics...I'm not sure how to solve this without knowing the charges of the two protons. Is there a certain way to?
Thank you to all who read this and/or reply :).

 

[TSny]

The charge of a proton is related to the charge of an electron. You should be able to find the value in your textbook or a quick web search.

 

[hawkeye1029]

Oh, I understand. So because the charge of an electron is -1.6x10^-19, the charge of a proton would be +1.610^-19?
And this charge can be used for q₁ and q₂.

 

[TSny]

Oh, I understand. So because the charge of an electron is -1.6x10^-19, the charge of a proton would be +1.610^-19?
And this charge can be used for q₁ and q₂.

Yes, that's right. When giving the value of something, always include the units.

 

[hawkeye1029]

Oh haha. The charge of an electron is -1.6x10^-19 Coulombs therefore the charge of a proton is +1.6x10^-19 Coulombs.

Thank you :).

 

[TSny]

Good. If I ask someone how old they are and they say, "twenty three", I ask them what units they are using. Could that be why I don't have many friends?

 

[hawkeye1029]

LOL. Now every time I say my age, I'll think of you and make sure to add years onto the end.

 

[TSny]