Answer to Question #271243 in Physics for Cheppie

Question

Given that the potential energy of a pair of atoms in a solid is raised by 1 eV when their

separation is changed by 1Å, calculate the macroscopic elastic modulus of the lattice.

Answer 1

By the equation for elastic potential energy:

$$E=\frac12kx^2→k=\frac{2E}{x^2}=32\text{ N/m}.$$