Calculate Distance Between Two Charges

Distance Formula:

\[ Distance = \sqrt{\frac{k \cdot q_1 \cdot q_2}{F}} \]

Coulomb's Constant (k):

N·m²/C²

Charge 1 (q₁):

Charge 2 (q₂):

Force (F):

Distance Between Charges:

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1. What is Coulomb's Law?

Coulomb's Law describes the electrostatic interaction between electrically charged particles. It states that the force between two point charges is directly proportional to the product of the charges and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the distance formula derived from Coulomb's Law:

\[ Distance = \sqrt{\frac{k \cdot q_1 \cdot q_2}{F}} \]

Where:

\( k \) — Coulomb's constant (8.98755×10⁹ N·m²/C²)
\( q_1 \) — Magnitude of first charge (Coulombs)
\( q_2 \) — Magnitude of second charge (Coulombs)
\( F \) — Electrostatic force between charges (Newtons)

Explanation: This formula calculates the distance at which two charges experience a specific electrostatic force based on their magnitudes and Coulomb's constant.

3. Importance of Distance Calculation

Details: Calculating the distance between charges is essential for understanding electrostatic interactions, designing electrical systems, and analyzing fundamental physics problems involving charged particles.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter Coulomb's constant (typically 8.98755×10⁹), both charge values in Coulombs, and the force in Newtons. All values must be positive and non-zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Coulomb's constant value?
A: Coulomb's constant is approximately 8.98755×10⁹ N·m²/C², which is often rounded to 9×10⁹ for calculations.

Q2: Does the sign of charges matter for distance calculation?
A: No, distance depends on the magnitude of charges, not their signs. The formula uses absolute values of charges.

Q3: What units should I use?
A: Use Coulombs for charge, Newtons for force, and meters for distance. Ensure consistent units throughout.

Q4: Can this calculator handle very small distances?
A: Yes, but at very small distances (atomic scales), quantum effects become significant and classical electrodynamics may not apply.

Q5: What if the force is zero?
A: If force is zero, the distance would be infinite (for like charges) or undefined (for opposite charges). The calculator requires positive force values.