Order of magnitude problem involving the force of repulsion between two persons

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the force of repulsion between two individuals using Coulomb's law. The calculations show a significant force of approximately 1.44e53 N, which is compared to the gravitational force on an object the size of Earth, expected to be around 10^25 N. Participants discuss potential errors in calculations, particularly roundoff errors, and suggest entering values like 10^26 to align with expected results. There is also a reference to a similar thread for additional context. The conversation emphasizes accuracy in calculations to avoid discrepancies in results.
StrawHat
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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



\vec{F} = k\stackrel{q<sub>1</sub>q<sub>2</sub>}{r^{2}}

The Attempt at a Solution



6.022e23*(0.505) = 3.041e23C <-- electrons
6.022e23*(0.495) = 2.981e23C <-- protons
3.041e23 - 2.981e23 = 6e21C <-- the difference between the two charges
\vec{F}_{e} = (9e9Nm^{2}/C^{2})(6e21C)^{2} / 2.25m^{2}
\vec{F}_{e} = 1.44e53 N
 
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CAF123 said:
Given that the force of repulsion is similar to the gravitational force exerted on an object with a mass the size of earth, you should expect F ~ 1025N.

There is an identical thread here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=431698

The answer gives me this error: "Your response is within 10% of the correct value. This may be due to roundoff error, or you could have a mistake in your calculation. Carry out all intermediate results to at least four-digit accuracy to minimize roundoff error."
 


What is the answer that you put in the box?
 


nasu said:
What is the answer that you put in the box?

I put in F~10 25N.
 


How do you get the number of protons?
 


StrawHat said:
I put in F~10 25N.

I would consider trying to enter 26 in the box. Depending on how you estimate, you may get 10^26. And the "weight" of the Earth is also of the order 10^26 (6x10^25).
 
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