What is the lowest gravitational Bohr radius in terms of light years?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the lowest gravitational Bohr radius using the gravitational force equation F=(G x Me x Mp)/r^2, where G is the gravitational constant, Me is the electron mass, and Mp is the proton mass. The participant attempted to equate the gravitational force to 13.6 eV, which is incorrect as it conflates force and energy. The correct approach involves solving for r using the gravitational force equation, leading to a calculated radius of 2.2831 x 10^-41 light years.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force equations
  • Knowledge of fundamental constants: G, Me, Mp
  • Familiarity with energy units and conversions (eV to Joules)
  • Basic concepts of quantum mechanics and Bohr model
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of the Bohr radius in gravitational contexts
  • Learn about the conversion between electronvolts and Joules
  • Study the implications of gravitational forces on atomic structures
  • Explore advanced quantum mechanics topics related to gravitational interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and gravitational forces, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to atomic structure and gravitational interactions.

annorax
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Homework Statement



If the attractive forces between an electron and proton only due to gravity is

F=(Gx Me x Mp)/r^2.

What is the lowest gravitational Bohr radius?
c=2.99799 x 10^8 m/s
Me= 9.10939 x 10^-31
Mp=1.67262 x 10^-27
h= 1.05457 x 10^-34
G= 6.67259 x 10^-11 Nm^2/kg^2
R= 1.097373 x 10^7m^-1

Answer in units of lt yr.

Homework Equations


F= G Mp Me / r^2


The Attempt at a Solution



This was not covered in detail in class, just the basics. My idea was to set F equal to 13.6 eV, convert to Joules, and solve the equation for r, which gave me an answer of 2.2831 x 10^-41 lightyears. A nudge in the right direction would be greatly appreciated!
 
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annorax said:
My idea was to set F equal to 13.6 eV
'F' is a force, and 13.6 eV is an energy---i.e. that won't work.

Why is it that there has to be a minimum radius? (i.e. why can't the radius be arbitrarily small?)
 
Actually, he realized that we had not gone over it yet and discussed it in class today. Thanks anyway!
 

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