Two objects will never actually touch

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In summary, when an object is placed on a table, the particles in the object and the particles in the table do not actually touch due to strong electrostatic repulsion between the valence electrons. This can be explained using the field model, where individual charged particles are influenced by and react to the fields. It would require an infinite amount of energy for the particles to touch, unless you are studying quantum mechanics.
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zapped
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Homework Statement


When an object is placed on table, the particles in the object and the particles in the table never actually touch.


Homework Equations


In a short paragraph, explain how the field model can be used to explain why the particles never touch. Refer to the strengths of the fields, and describle how individual charged particles are influenced by and react to the fields.


The Attempt at a Solution


My answer is the electrons in the two objects will repel(due to strong electrostatic repulsion) each other, and it will take an infinite amount of energy for the electrons from the 2 objects to touch.
I don't know how to relate to strength of the field, please help, thanks!
 
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  • #2
anyone can help me?
 
  • #3
Indeed, you only need consider the valence electrons. Aside from that, there's nothing wrong with your analysis, unless you are studying quantum mechanics.
 

What does it mean when we say "two objects will never actually touch"?

When we say that two objects will never actually touch, we mean that there will always be a tiny gap or space between the two objects, no matter how close they may appear to be. This is due to the repulsive electromagnetic force between the atoms of the two objects.

Why can't two objects ever touch?

Two objects can never touch because they are made up of atoms, which are constantly in motion. The repulsive force between the negatively charged electrons in the atoms prevents the objects from making direct contact with each other.

Is it possible for two objects to touch if they are not made up of atoms?

No, it is still not possible for two objects to touch even if they are not made up of atoms. All matter is made up of particles that have a repulsive force between them, so there will always be a small gap between two objects.

Can we ever feel the space between two objects?

No, we cannot feel the space between two objects because the gap is too small to be perceived by our senses. The atoms in our body also have this repulsive force, so we never truly make direct contact with any object we touch.

Why does it seem like two objects are touching when we can't feel the space between them?

This is due to our perception of touch. Our sense of touch is based on pressure, not actual contact. When two objects come close enough, the pressure receptors on our skin are activated, making it feel like we are touching the object. However, there is still a small gap between the two objects.

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