How should I approach this question?

[matt85]

A K+ ion and a Cl- ion are directly across from each other on opposite sides of a membrane 7.9 nm thick. What is the electric force on the K+ ion due to the Cl- ion? Ignore the presence of other charges.

_____N

Thanks,
Matt

 

[fargoth]

hmmm... do you know coulomb law? $$E=\frac{q}{|r_1-r_2|^2}$$
and $$F=qE$$

 

[matt85]

Yes, but all that is given in the problem is "r". How do I find "q"?

 

[darkar]

The q is just the value of -e i think.

 

[Tide]

HINT: What do the "+" and "-" mean in K+ and Cl-?

 

[matt85]

Ohhh, ok. Thanks a bunch guys.