Distance of Closest Approach Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the minimum distance an alpha particle can approach a nucleus based on Madelung energy, which describes the electrostatic potential in ionic crystals.
Purpose: It's used in solid-state physics and crystallography to understand ionic interactions in crystal lattices.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula balances the electrostatic attraction between ions with the Madelung energy of the crystal lattice.
Details: This calculation helps determine ionic radii, lattice energies, and stability of crystal structures in materials science.
Tips: Enter the Madelung constant (typically 1.7 for NaCl structure), charge in coulombs, and Madelung energy (negative value, in ×10-21 J).
Q1: What is the Madelung constant?
A: It's a dimensionless constant that depends on the crystal structure and accounts for the electrostatic interaction of all ions in the lattice.
Q2: Why is Madelung energy negative?
A: The negative sign indicates the attractive nature of the electrostatic potential between oppositely charged ions.
Q3: What are typical values for the Madelung constant?
A: Common values are ~1.748 for NaCl, ~1.638 for CsCl, and ~5.039 for fluorite (CaF2) structures.
Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good first approximation but neglects quantum effects and electron cloud overlap.
Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use SI units: coulombs for charge, joules for energy (enter in ×10-21 J field), and the result will be in meters.