How Does Electric Force Compare to Gravitational Force in a Simple Atom?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the comparison of electric and gravitational forces in a simple atom, specifically between an electron and a proton separated by a distance of R=0.5 x 10-10 m. The calculated electric force is determined to be 28.8 N using the formula F=K(qq)/r2. In contrast, the gravitational forces acting on both the electron and proton are significantly smaller, calculated using the formula F=G(mpme)/R2. The gravitational forces for both particles are indeed equal, as they depend on the same mass values and distance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Coulomb's Law for electric force calculations.
  • Familiarity with Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation.
  • Basic knowledge of atomic structure, specifically the roles of electrons and protons.
  • Proficiency in scientific notation and unit conversions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of electric force in atomic interactions.
  • Explore gravitational force calculations in different contexts, such as celestial bodies.
  • Examine the constants K (Coulomb's constant) and G (gravitational constant) in detail.
  • Learn about the significance of force ratios in particle physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, researchers in atomic and particle physics, and anyone interested in the fundamental forces governing atomic interactions.

Dell
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a simple atom is comprised of one electron and one proton, with a distance of R=0.5*10-10m between them

1) what is the electric force between them

F=K(qq)/r2 = 28.8N
------------------------------

2)how much smaller than the electric force is:
a) the gravitational force of the electron
b) the gravitational force of the proton

are the 2 gravitational forces not the same? is the force not equal to G(mpme)/R2 for both of them?
 
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Dell said:
a simple atom is comprised of one electron and one proton, with a distance of R=0.5*10-10m between them

1) what is the electric force between them

F=K(qq)/r2 = 28.8N
Better double check your arithmetic. 28.8N is huge (for atomic particles).

2)how much smaller than the electric force is:
a) the gravitational force of the electron
b) the gravitational force of the proton
This is worded strangely. Perhaps they meant the gravitational force on the particles.

are the 2 gravitational forces not the same? is the force not equal to G(mpme)/R2 for both of them?
Right.
 

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