Problems involving electromagnetism

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a problem in electromagnetism that involves determining the correct expression for a constant, x, which combines the Coulomb constant (k), the charge of an electron (e), and Planck's constant (h). The lowest energy of a hydrogen atom is expressed as E=-(0.5)(x^2)m(c^2), where m is the electron mass and c is the speed of light. The correct expression for x is derived through dimensional analysis of the provided options, ultimately leading to the conclusion that x equals (k(e^2)c)/H.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetism concepts, specifically Coulomb's law.
  • Familiarity with Planck's constant and its significance in quantum mechanics.
  • Knowledge of dimensional analysis and its application in physics.
  • Basic understanding of the energy levels of hydrogen atoms and non-relativistic kinetic energy.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the energy levels of hydrogen using quantum mechanics.
  • Learn about dimensional analysis techniques in physics problems.
  • Explore the implications of Planck's constant in quantum mechanics.
  • Investigate the relationship between electromagnetic forces and atomic structure.
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and quantum mechanics, as well as anyone involved in solving complex physics problems related to atomic energy levels.

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Homework Statement


In problems involving electromagnetism it is often convenient and informative to express answers in terms of a constant, x, which is a combination of the Coulomb constant, k, the charge of an electron, e, and H=h/(2pi), with h being Planck's constant. For instance, the lowest energy that a hydrogen atom can have is given by E=-(0.5)(x^2)m(c^2), where m is the mass of the electron and c is the speed of light. Which of the following is the correct expression for x?
(HINT: Non-relativistic kinetic energy is (0.5)m(v^2), where v is the speed.)

a) (k(e^2))/(Hc)
b) H/(k(e^2)c)
c) (k(e^2)H)/c
d) (k(e^2)c)/H


Homework Equations


E=hf
E=m(c^2)
E=(1/2)m(v^2)


The Attempt at a Solution


I really don't know what they are asking for or what formula they are referring. Can someone help? Thanks.
 
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Analyze the units of the various answers (dimensional analysis) in order to get the given expression to be in joules.

You can avoid solving for the energy levels of the hydrogen atom if you use dimensional analysis.
 

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