the table below shows four pairs of atoms and the electric charge of each atom. the atoms in each pair are…

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Coulomb's law

The electrostatic force between two charges $q_1$ and $q_2$ separated by a distance $r$ is given by $F = k\frac{|q_1q_2|}{r^2}$. Since $r$ is the same for all pairs, we only need to consider the product of the magnitudes of the charges $|q_1q_2|$.

Step2: Calculate product for Pair P

For Pair P with $q_1 = 1$ and $q_2=5$, $|q_1q_2|=|1\times5| = 5$.

Step3: Calculate product for Pair Q

For Pair Q with $q_1 = 2$ and $q_2 = 6$, $|q_1q_2|=|2\times6|=12$.

Step4: Calculate product for Pair R

For Pair R with $q_1 = 3$ and $q_2 = 4$, $|q_1q_2|=|3\times4| = 12$.

Step5: Calculate product for Pair S

For Pair S with $q_1 = 4$ and $q_2 = 2$, $|q_1q_2|=|4\times2|=8$.

Step6: Compare products

Pairs Q and R have the largest product of charge magnitudes among the four pairs. Since we are looking for repulsive force (charges must have the same - sign), Pair R has two positive - charged atoms, while Pair Q has opposite - charged atoms (which attract).

Answer:

C. Pair R