Solving Math Problems: Tips & Tricks

[leslieM]

Homework Statement

how does the electric force between two helium nuclei placed a certain distance apart compare with the force between two hydrogen nuclei placed the same distance apart

Relevant Equations

would the forces be the same?

Not sure how I am suppose to solve this.

 

[berkeman]

Homework Statement:: how does the electric force between two helium nuclei placed a certain distance apart compare with the force between two hydrogen nuclei placed the same distance apart
Relevant Equations:: would the forces be the same?

Not sure how I am suppose to solve this.

Welcome to the PF.

Since they are asking just about the nuclei and not neutral atoms, what is different about those two nuclei?

 

[leslieM]

The amount of protons they have.

 

[berkeman]

Correct! And why would that affect the forces between bare nuclei?

 

[leslieM]

The more protons a nuclei has the more force they have.

 

[berkeman]

The more protons a nuclei has the more force they have.

Yes. Now all you have to do is quantify that difference in force in order to finish answering your schoolwork question. What is the equation for the force between two charges based on the amount of charge and their separation distance? That equation should be in your textbook or in your class notes.