Gravitational Field: Proton & Electron Mass Ratio

In summary, the proton and electron mass ratio is the comparison of the mass of a proton to the mass of an electron, with a value of approximately 1836. It is important in understanding gravity as it determines the strength of the gravitational force between objects. This ratio affects the behavior of particles in a gravitational field, leading to the formation of structures like planets and galaxies. It is a constant value, although it may vary slightly in extreme conditions. This ratio is measured through various experimental techniques, with the current accepted value based on precise measurements conducted by different research groups.
  • #1
Willian93
12
0

Homework Statement



if a proton and a electron put in a gravitational field, what is their ratio compare to one another?

Homework Equations


fg= GMm/r^2
mass of a proton = 1.67 x 10^-27 kg
mass of a electron= 9.11 x 10^-31 kg

The Attempt at a Solution



i tried to divided them out, i got 1 to 1800, not sure if it is right
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
If in a gravitational field of strength 'g', the force on any mass in that field is mg.

So the force on the mass of the proton is 1.67(10-27)g. Find the force on the electron and then divide.
 

Related to Gravitational Field: Proton & Electron Mass Ratio

1. What is the proton and electron mass ratio?

The proton and electron mass ratio is the comparison of the mass of a proton to the mass of an electron. It is a fundamental constant in physics that is denoted by the symbol "mp/me". It is approximately 1836, meaning that a proton is 1836 times heavier than an electron.

2. Why is the proton and electron mass ratio important in understanding gravity?

The proton and electron mass ratio is important in understanding gravity because it is a key factor in determining the strength of the gravitational force between two objects. The greater the mass of an object, the stronger its gravitational pull. Since protons are much more massive than electrons, the presence of protons in an object contributes significantly to its gravitational field.

3. How does the proton and electron mass ratio affect the behavior of particles in a gravitational field?

The proton and electron mass ratio affects the behavior of particles in a gravitational field by determining the strength of the gravitational force between them. Objects with a higher mass, such as protons, will have a stronger gravitational pull and will exert a greater force on other objects in their vicinity. This can result in the acceleration of objects towards each other, leading to the formation of structures such as planets and galaxies.

4. Is the proton and electron mass ratio a constant value?

Yes, the proton and electron mass ratio is a constant value. It is a fundamental constant in physics and does not change under normal circumstances. However, it may vary slightly in extreme conditions such as in high-energy particle collisions or in the early universe.

5. How is the proton and electron mass ratio measured?

The proton and electron mass ratio is measured using various experimental techniques, including mass spectrometry and particle accelerators. In these experiments, the masses of protons and electrons are compared and the ratio is calculated. The current accepted value for the proton and electron mass ratio is based on precise measurements conducted by different research groups using these techniques.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
457
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
21
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
23
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
8K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top