What is the new separation between the charges?

In summary, two positive point charges with a separation of 0.86 m are moved so that their electric potential energy doubles. Using the equation kq/r, the new separation between the charges can be solved for. After canceling out the KQaQb terms on both sides of the equation, the value of d is found to be 0.43 m.
  • #1
kdrobey
27
0

Homework Statement




Two positive point charges are held in place, 0.86 m apart. They are then moved so that their electric potential energy doubles. What is the new separation between the charges?

Homework Equations



kq/r

The Attempt at a Solution


had PEb=KQaQb/d=2EPEa, then did KQaQb/d=2(KQaQb/.86. but cannot figure out how to solve it further
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
kdrobey said:
... then did KQaQb/d=2(KQaQb/.86.
This is good. Simply and solve for d. Start by canceling everything that can be canceled from both sides of the equation.
 
  • #3
both sides of the equation had KQaQb, i canceled the part out on both sides, leaving, 1/d=2(1/.86). then 1=2.32d. d=.43?
 
  • #4
Looks good to me.
 
  • #5
awesome, thanks
 

What is the new separation between the charges?

The new separation between the charges refers to the distance between positive and negative charges in an atom or molecule. It is also known as the internuclear distance and is measured in units of length such as meters or angstroms.

How is the new separation between the charges determined?

The new separation between the charges is determined by the electronic structure of an atom or molecule. It is influenced by factors such as the number of electrons, the type of bond, and the presence of other atoms or molecules in the vicinity.

Why is the new separation between the charges important?

The new separation between the charges is important because it affects the overall stability and reactivity of an atom or molecule. It also determines the strength of the bond between atoms, which can impact the properties and behavior of substances.

Can the new separation between the charges be changed?

Yes, the new separation between the charges can be changed by altering the electronic structure of an atom or molecule. This can be done through processes such as chemical reactions or external influences such as electric fields.

How does the new separation between the charges relate to the concept of polarity?

The new separation between the charges is closely related to the concept of polarity. A larger separation between charges indicates a more polar bond, while a smaller separation indicates a less polar bond. The polarity of a molecule can also affect its physical and chemical properties.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
143
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
696
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
889
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
689
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
576
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
148
Back
Top