How Do You Calculate the Net Charge of a Substance?

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SUMMARY

The net charge of a substance with 5.4 x 1013 protons and 4.2 x 1013 electrons is calculated by subtracting the number of electrons from the number of protons. The correct calculation yields a net charge of 1.2 x 1013 protons, which corresponds to a charge of approximately 1.92 x 10-6 Coulombs, given that the charge of a single proton is +1.6 x 10-19 Coulombs. It is essential to reference the charge values for protons and electrons from a reliable source, such as a textbook.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic atomic structure, specifically protons and electrons.
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's law and charge calculations.
  • Knowledge of scientific notation and its application in calculations.
  • Access to a physics textbook for reference values of charge.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the charge of a single proton and electron in Coulombs.
  • Learn about Coulomb's law and its applications in electrostatics.
  • Practice calculations involving net charge using different quantities of protons and electrons.
  • Explore scientific notation and its significance in physics calculations.
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Students studying physics, particularly those focused on atomic structure and electrostatics, as well as educators looking for clear examples of charge calculations.

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Homework Statement



Calculate the net charge on a substance consisting of a combination of 5.4 1013 protons and 4.2 1013 electrons.

Homework Equations


I subtracted the two but i still had the wrong answer


The Attempt at a Solution


9.6E13
1.2E13
 
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They probably want the charge given in Coulombs. You never really said what your answer is; is it 9.6e13 or 1.2e13?

If you don't already know, you should look up what the charge is for just one proton -- or just one electron. The value should be given in your textbook, either in the chapter you are studying, or perhaps on the inside front or back cover.
 

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