What is the electric potential energy?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the electric potential energy of a system with two protons separated by a distance of 610–9 m. The formula used is Uelec = (1/4πε₀) * (q1 * q2) / r, with a constant value of 9 x 10^9 N*m²/C². A participant initially calculated the potential energy as 4.335e-36 but found it to be incorrect and requested assistance with the calculations. Additionally, there is a clarification on the need to focus on electric rather than gravitational potential energy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly applying the formula and understanding the charge of a proton.
ohheytai
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Two protons are a distance 610–9 m apart. What is the electric potential energy of the system consisting of the two protons?



Uelec = (1/4piepsilonnot)*q1q2/r
where (1/4piepsilonnot) = 9x10^9 n*m/coulomb^2




The mass of the proton is 1.7*10^-27
for my answer i got 4.335e-36 but its wrong can someone help me out here?
 
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You'll have to show your work.

What is the charge of a proton, by the way? (You're supposed to find the electrical potential energy, not the gravitational potential energy. :wink:)
 

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