Elementary Charge: Read or Calculate?

In summary, the conversation was about equipment that can read the elementary charge of an atom and how we know the charge of an atom. The topic of mass spectometers was also brought up.
  • #1
Ankhen
15
0
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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  • #4
Do you also know about mass spectometers?
 
  • #5
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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Likes Ankhen
  • #6
anorlunda said:
Do you also know about mass spectometers?
Nope, but thanks
 

Related to Elementary Charge: Read or Calculate?

1. What is elementary charge?

Elementary charge, also known as the elementary charge of an electron, is the smallest unit of electric charge. It is represented by the symbol "e" and has a value of approximately 1.602 x 10^-19 Coulombs.

2. How is elementary charge calculated?

Elementary charge is typically calculated using the formula Q = n x e, where Q is the total charge and n is the number of elementary charges. For example, if there are 5 elementary charges present, the total charge would be 5 x 1.602 x 10^-19 Coulombs.

3. What is the significance of elementary charge?

Elementary charge is significant because it is the fundamental unit of electric charge and is present in all matter. It helps determine the properties and behavior of atoms and molecules, and plays a crucial role in many electrical and chemical processes.

4. Why is it important to know about elementary charge?

Knowing about elementary charge is important for understanding the basic principles of electricity and electromagnetism. It also has practical applications in fields such as electronics, chemistry, and physics.

5. Can elementary charge be measured experimentally?

Yes, elementary charge can be measured experimentally using a device called an electron charge balance. This device uses the repulsive force between two charged metal plates to measure the charge of a single electron. Other methods, such as the Millikan oil drop experiment, can also be used to measure elementary charge.

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