Question

Two nuclei each contain two protons and exert a force 4 N on each other. If we transfer a proton from one of these nuclei to the other, the force on each nucleus is now reduced to 3 N. True or False? Why?

Answer 1

True

Step-by-step explanation:

Using Coulomb's Law:

`4 Newtons = Force = k*q_1*q_2/r^2.`

Plug in the values for the original charges and you get

`4 Newtons = F = 4 *k*e^2/r^2` where a proton as a charge +e.

Dividing both sides by 4 you get that k*e^2/r^2 = 1 newton.

Now plugging in the new charges after moving the proton around:

`F = 3*k*e^2/r^2.`

We know that k*e^2/r^2 = 1 newton so the net force that each nuclei has on each other is 3 Newtons.