Question

the table below shows four pairs of atoms and the electric charge of each atom. the atoms in each pair are located the same distance from each other. pair atom a atom b w +1 +5 x -6 -1 y +9 +1 z -3 -2 which pair of atoms is experiencing the strongest electric force? a. pair y b. pair x c. pair w d. pair z

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Coulomb's law

The electric force $F = k\frac{q_1q_2}{r^2}$, where $k$ is a constant, $q_1$ and $q_2$ are charges, and $r$ is the distance. Since $r$ is the same for all pairs, we only need to compare the product $|q_1q_2|$ for each pair.

Step2: Calculate product for Pair W

For Pair W, $q_1 = + 1$, $q_2=+5$, so $|q_1q_2|=|1\times5| = 5$.

Step3: Calculate product for Pair X

For Pair X, $q_1=-6$, $q_2 = - 1$, so $|q_1q_2|=|(-6)\times(-1)|=6$.

Step4: Calculate product for Pair Y

For Pair Y, $q_1 = + 9$, $q_2=+1$, so $|q_1q_2|=|9\times1| = 9$.

Step5: Calculate product for Pair Z

For Pair Z, $q_1=-3$, $q_2=-2$, so $|q_1q_2|=|(-3)\times(-2)| = 6$.

Step6: Compare products

Comparing the values: $5$ (Pair W), $6$ (Pair X), $9$ (Pair Y), $6$ (Pair Z). The largest product is for Pair Y.

Answer:

A. Pair Y