Calculating Specific Charge: U-238 Example

In summary, specific charge is calculated by dividing the overall charge of an object by its mass. This applies to both charged and uncharged atoms, with the specific charge of neutral atoms being zero. For U-238, the specific charge can vary depending on whether it is ionized or not. The number of protons and electrons in an atom determines its charge.
  • #1
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Hi all,

I am having trouble understanding how to calculate specific charge. I know that it is charge/mass.

But what charge are they referring to? For instance an atom may be charged + or - and may not be charged at all. In that instance are we referring to the extra charge that exceeds the positive or negative charge?

What is the specific charge of a U-238?

Please show me some work outs. especially showing for charged and uncharged atoms. (assuming uncharged contains extra protons or electrons)

...or is it neutral atoms do not apply.

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Do all nuclei have equal number of protons and electrons therefore are not charged at all. I mean when they initially they write the atom symbol showing the atomic number and nucleon number without showing the number of electrons.
 
  • #3
"Charge" is the charge of the whole object you are considering. Neutral objects have a specific charge of zero. If you ionize the U-238, it gets a non-zero specific charge.
 

FAQ: Calculating Specific Charge: U-238 Example

What is specific charge?

Specific charge, also known as specific charge-to-mass ratio or specific charge constant, is a measure of the amount of charge that a particle carries per unit of its mass. It is denoted by the symbol k and is measured in coulombs per kilogram (C/kg).

How do you calculate specific charge?

Specific charge is calculated by dividing the charge of a particle (in coulombs) by its mass (in kilograms). The formula is k = Q/m, where k is the specific charge, Q is the charge of the particle, and m is its mass.

What is an example of calculating specific charge for U-238?

Uranium-238 (U-238) is a radioactive isotope with a charge of +92 and a mass of 238 grams. To calculate its specific charge, we first need to convert the mass to kilograms (238 grams = 0.238 kilograms). Then, we plug the values into the formula: k = 92 C / 0.238 kg = 386.55 C/kg. Therefore, the specific charge of U-238 is 386.55 C/kg.

Why is specific charge important in scientific research?

Specific charge is an important parameter in many scientific studies, especially in the fields of nuclear physics and particle physics. It helps to identify and distinguish between different types of particles, and is used in experiments involving particle accelerators, mass spectrometers, and other scientific instruments.

What is the significance of calculating specific charge for U-238?

Calculating the specific charge of U-238 allows us to understand and study its behavior in various scientific experiments and applications. It also helps in the analysis and identification of other radioactive elements and isotopes, as they may have different specific charges. Moreover, specific charge is a fundamental quantity in the study of nuclear reactions and radioactive decay processes.

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