Two electrons are fixed in space and separated by a distance of
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Electric Force Field and Potential · Electric Force Field and Potential
Problem
Two electrons are fixed in space and separated by a distance of 2.0nm. Treat each electron as a point charge and neglect all forces except the mutual electrostatic and gravitational interactions between them.
(a) Calculate the magnitude of the electrostatic force FE acting on either electron.
(b) Calculate the magnitude of the gravitational force FG acting on either electron.
(c) Determine the ratio FE/FG for this configuration.
(d) At what separation would the two forces become equal in magnitude for electrons? Express your answer in metres and comment on whether this distance is physically reasonable in typical laboratory or cosmic settings.