Question

Two protons are held a distance d apart. The electrostatic force and the gravitational force that one proton exerts on the other are Fe and Fg, respectively. Which of the following correctly compares the magnitude and direction of these forces?

Fe > Fg, opposite direction

a. Fe > Fg, same direction
b. Fe < Fg opposite direction
c. Fe < Fg same direction

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

charge on each proton = 1.6 x 10⁻¹⁹ C

mass of proton = 1.67 x 10⁻²⁷ kg

Electrostatic force of repulsion Fe = 9 x 10⁹ x ( 1.6 x 10⁻¹⁹ )² / d²

= 23.04 x 10⁻²⁹ / d²

Gravitational force of attraction = G Mm / d²

M = m = 1.67 x 10⁻²⁷ kg

Gravitational force of attraction Fg = 6.67 x 10⁻¹¹ x ( 1.67 x 10⁻²⁷ )² / d²

= 18.60 x 10⁻⁻⁶⁵ / d²

So Fg is far less than Fe and former is attractive , later is repulsive .

Fe > Fg, opposite direction , is the answer .