Calculating the Total Positive Charge in Iron: From Protons to Coulombs

Understanding the atomic structure of iron, specifically the charge contained within its nucleus, is crucial for comprehending the fundamental properties of matter. This article delves into the intricacies of calculating the total positive charge in 1.0 g of iron, focusing on the role of protons and the unit of charge, coulombs.

Introduction to Iron's Atomic Structure

The iron atom, represented by the symbol 5626Fe, is characterized by its atomic number (26) and its atomic mass (approximately 56 g/mol). The atomic number signifies the number of protons in the nucleus, which is a key determinant of the atom's charge and its identity. In the case of iron, this value is 26 protons. Annulareilf

Charge Balance in the Atom

It is important to note that each iron atom also contains 26 electrons, which are negatively charged fundamental particles. The charge of a single electron is -1.602176634 × 10-19 coulombs, and it is known that the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons in a neutral atom. This balance of charges ensures that the atom as a whole is electrically neutral, meaning the total charge is zero.

Calculating the Total Positive Charge in Iron

However, the question here is specifically about the total positive charge contained within the 1.0 g of iron, which involves only the protons in the nucleus. To find this, we need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine the Number of Iron Atoms in 1.0 g of Iron

1. Calculate the number of moles of iron in 1.0 g:

Moles of iron 1.0 g / 55.845 g/mol 0.0179067 mol

2. Convert moles to the number of atoms using Avogadro's number (6.022 × 1023):

Number of iron atoms 0.0179067 mol × 6.022 × 1023 atoms/mol 1.07834 × 1022 atoms

Step 2: Calculate the Total Positive Charge in 1.0 g of Iron

3. Each iron atom has 26 protons, and the charge of a single proton is 1.602176634 × 10-19 coulombs:

Total positive charge Number of iron atoms × Number of protons per atom × Charge per proton

Total positive charge 1.07834 × 1022 atoms × 26 protons/atom × 1.602176634 × 10-19 C/proton

Total positive charge 4.499999999999999 × 108 C ≈ 4.5 × 108 coulombs (to two significant figures)

Conclusion

The total positive charge contained in 1.0 g of iron is 4.5 × 108 coulombs to two significant figures. This calculation underscores the importance of the atomic structure in understanding the physical properties of matter and helps in providing precise scientific data.

For more in-depth knowledge about atomic structure, charge calculation, and related scientific concepts, visit reputable educational resources and scientific journals.