Some basic electric potential questions

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the electric potential of a hydrogen atom's nucleus at the electron's mean distance. The user initially used the wrong atomic radius of 25 x 10^(-12) meters, leading to an incorrect potential value. They referenced the formula V = kq/r for their calculations. Ultimately, they corrected their approach by using the correct radius of 5.29 x 10^(-11) meters, which resolved their issue. The thread highlights the importance of using accurate values in physics calculations.
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[solved] some basic electric potential questions

Homework Statement


Find the electric potential established by the nucleus of a hydrogen atom at the mean distance of the circulating electron.


Homework Equations



V = - Integral of (E (dot) dL)
V = kq/r from r distance of a point charge

The Attempt at a Solution



well, I found on wikipedia that the atomic radius of a hydrogen atom is 25 * 10 ^ (-12) meters.
So I just used kq/r to find the potential and got the wrong answer.

Should I be using a different distance or a different equation?

thanks
 
Last edited:
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nvm I solved it I had to use r=5.29 * 10 ^ (-11) meters
 

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