Question

The mutual electric potential energy between the protons in an uranium nucleus is 2.4×10^5 eV. find the distance between the protons.

Answer 1

Given
U = 2.4 x 10^5 eV
We know,
Q = 1.6 x 10^-19 C
Using the formula
U = k Q/r
r = k Q/U
k = 9 x 10^9 (constant)
By solving we get,
r = 9 x 10^9 x 1.6 x 10^-19/2.4 x 10^5
r = 6 x 10^-15 meters
Hence, they are 6 x 10^-15 m apart from each other.
Can't even imagine.

Answer 2

Given,

U= 2.4 × 10∧5 eV

We know,

Q= 1.6 × 10∧-9 C

According to the formula,

U = k Q/r

⇒r = k Q/U

By solving we get,

r= 9× 10∧9 × 1.6 ×10∧-9 /2.4 × 10∧5 [ k = 9× 10∧9 constant]

r= 6 × 10∧-15 m

Hence, the distance between the protons is 6×10∧-15 m