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Ch.8 - Periodic Properties of the Elements
Chapter 8, Problem 56

According to Coulomb's law, rank the interactions between charged particles from lowest potential energy to highest potential energy. a. a 1+ charge and a 1- charge separated by 100 pm b. a 2+ charge and a 1- charge separated by 100 pm c. a 1+ charge and a 1+ charge separated by 100 pm d. a 1+ charge and a 1- charge separated by 200 pm

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Coulomb's Law

Coulomb's Law describes the electrostatic interaction between charged particles. It states that the force between two charges is directly proportional to the product of the magnitudes of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. This law helps determine the potential energy associated with the arrangement of charged particles.
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Potential Energy of Charged Particles

The potential energy of charged particles is influenced by their charges and the distance separating them. Like charges (both positive or both negative) repel each other, resulting in higher potential energy as they are brought closer together. Conversely, opposite charges attract, leading to lower potential energy as they approach each other.
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Distance and Charge Magnitude

The distance between charged particles and the magnitude of their charges are critical factors in determining the strength of their interaction. A greater distance reduces the force and potential energy, while larger charges increase the force and potential energy. Understanding how these factors interplay is essential for ranking interactions based on potential energy.
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