Elementary Charge: Read or Calculate?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the methods of determining the elementary charge and mass of atoms, questioning whether these values can be directly measured or are solely derived from calculations. The scope includes theoretical and experimental aspects of atomic charge and mass measurement.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the existence of equipment that can directly read the elementary charge of an atom, suggesting a desire for empirical measurement rather than reliance on calculations.
  • References are made to Millikan's Oil Drop Experiment as a historical method for measuring elementary charge, although the relevance to current measurement techniques is not fully explored.
  • Mass spectrometers are mentioned as a potential tool for measuring atomic mass, indicating that there are instruments designed for this purpose.
  • One participant clarifies that an atom itself does not have an elementary charge, as it is typically neutral, and discusses the charge carried by protons and electrons instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of atomic charge, with some asserting that atoms are neutral while others focus on the charges of their constituent particles. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the direct measurement of elementary charge and mass.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of charge and mass, as well as the assumptions about atomic neutrality and the conditions under which atoms may gain or lose charge.

Ankhen
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Hi. Do there exits equipment that can read the elementary charge of atom? Or do we only know there charge by calculation?
And the same question about there mass
 
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Do you also know about mass spectometers?
 
Ankhen said:
Hi. Do there exits equipment that can read the elementary charge of atom? Or do we only know there charge by calculation?
And the same question about there mass
An atom does not have an elementary charge associated with it.
Usually an atom is neutral, so its overall charge is zero.
Some atoms may become positive or negative, when the charge balance is disturbed.
Elementary charge is carried by the components of atoms, protons and neutrons. Each proton has an elementary positive charge and each electron has an elementary negative charge.
 
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anorlunda said:
Do you also know about mass spectometers?
Nope, but thanks
 

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