How Strong is the Force Between a Uranium Nucleus and an Electron at 0.1 nm?

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SUMMARY

The force of attraction between a uranium nucleus (atomic number 92) and an electron at a distance of 0.1 nm can be calculated using Coulomb's Law. The correct formula is F = (1 / (4πε₀)) * (Q_U * Q_e⁻) / r². Substituting the values, the force is determined by using ε₀ = 8.85 x 10⁻¹² F/m, Q_U = 92 * 1.6 x 10⁻¹⁹ C, and r = 0.1 x 10⁻⁹ m. A common mistake is neglecting to square the radial distance in the calculation.

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  • Coulomb's Law for electrostatic force calculations
  • Understanding of atomic structure, specifically uranium
  • Basic knowledge of electrostatic constants, including ε₀
  • Ability to perform unit conversions in physics
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  • Explore the significance of the permittivity of free space (ε₀) in electrostatics
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Homework Statement


What is the force of attraction between a uranium nucleus(atomic number 92)
and an electron at a distance of 0.1 nm?


Homework Equations



F = kQ1Q2/r2

The Attempt at a Solution



F= 8.99*109*92*1.6*10-19*(-1.6*10-19)/0.1*10-9

Please let me know the attempt at a solution is correct.
 
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well, using Coulomb's Force(like you did), you get the equation

F=\frac{1}{4 \pi \epsilon_{0}} \cdot \frac{Q_{U}Q_{e^{-}}}{r^{2}}

Which then, by substitution:

F=\frac{1}{4 \pi \times 8.85 \times 10^{-12}} \cdot \frac{(92 \times 1.6 \times 10^{-19}) \cdot (-1.6 \times 10^{-19})}{(0.1 \times 10^{-9})^{2}}
 
Yeah, it looks like you just forgot to square the radial distance.
 

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