What is the repulsive force pushing these two spheres apart?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the repulsive force between two spheres formed from the fission of a Uranium-235 nucleus, each containing 46 protons and a radius of 5.9x10^-15m. The relevant equation for this calculation is Coulomb's Law, expressed as F = k(q1)(q2)/d^2, where k is Coulomb's constant (9x10^9 N m²/C²). The user seeks clarification on the appropriate values to substitute into the equation, specifically the charge of the protons, which is essential for determining the repulsive force.

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  • Knowledge of atomic structure, specifically the role of protons in charge determination.
  • Familiarity with the concept of nuclear fission and its products.
  • Basic proficiency in algebra for manipulating equations.
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  • Research the charge of a proton, which is approximately 1.6x10^-19 C, to use in the force calculation.
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  • Explore the implications of nuclear fission in energy production and its associated forces.
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Homework Statement



At the point of fission, a nucleus of 235U with 92 protons is divided into two smaller spheres, each with 46 protons and a radius of 5.9x10^-15m. What is the repulsive force pushing these two spheres apart?

Homework Equations



F = k(qi)(q2)/d^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not quite sure what to use for the numerator of the equation. I believe that 5.9x10^-15m would be used as the distance. So, part of the equation would be (9*10^9)(x)(x)/5.9x10^-15.

Can anyone lead me to what numbers I SHOULD be using or at least give me a hint? Thank you! :)
 
Last edited:
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for coulomb's Law you consider the charges, not the masses...
 
Ah, sorry ._. I was looking over a different page in my notebook.
 

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