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
x	-6	-1
y	+9	+1
z	-3	-2

which pair of atoms is experiencing the strongest electric force?
a. pair y
b. pair w
c. pair x
d. pair z

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Coulomb's law

The electric force between two charged particles is proportional to the product of their charges ($F\propto q_1q_2$) when the distance is constant. Calculate the product of charges for each pair.

Step2: Calculate product for Pair W

For Pair W with charges $q_A = + 1$ and $q_B=+5$, the product $q_A\times q_B=(+1)\times(+5) = 5$.

Step3: Calculate product for Pair X

For Pair X with charges $q_A=-6$ and $q_B = - 1$, the product $q_A\times q_B=(-6)\times(-1)=6$.

Step4: Calculate product for Pair Y

For Pair Y with charges $q_A = + 9$ and $q_B=+1$, the product $q_A\times q_B=(+9)\times(+1)=9$.

Step5: Calculate product for Pair Z

For Pair Z with charges $q_A=-3$ and $q_B=-2$, the product $q_A\times q_B=(-3)\times(-2)=6$.

Step6: Compare products

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

Answer:

A. Pair Y