Calculating Work to Stop a Moving Electron

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the work required to stop a moving electron, specifically focusing on its kinetic energy and the relevant equations involved in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between work and kinetic energy, questioning the presence of potential energy in this scenario. There is a discussion about the formula for kinetic energy and its application to the problem.

Discussion Status

Participants have engaged in clarifying the kinetic energy formula and its implications for the work needed to stop the electron. Some have provided guidance on the calculations, while others are confirming their understanding of the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that the original poster is uncertain about the role of potential energy in this situation, which may affect their approach to the problem.

strugglin-physics
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How much work is required to stop an electron (m = 9.11×10-31 kg) which is moving with a speed of 1.86×106 m/s?

Ef-Ei=W
Kenetic E - Potential E = Work
I don't think there is any potential energy in this case...

I'm a bit stuck. Any suggestions?
 
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Keep going. [itex]W = \Delta {KE}[/itex], so what's the kinetic energy of that electron?
 
is the change in kenetic energy 1/2mv^2?
 
The initial KE of the electron is 1/2mv^2; the final is zero. So, yes, the change in KE is (minus) 1/2mv^2.
 
Great thank you that was a whole lot easier than I made it out to be!
 

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