Motion of Charged Particles in Electric Fields

In summary, the motion of a charged particle in an electric field is determined by the interaction between the electric field and the particle's charge. The velocity of the particle can change depending on the strength and direction of the electric field, as well as the particle's charge and mass. Positive and negative charged particles will have opposite reactions to the field, with positive particles being repelled and negative particles being attracted. The initial velocity of the particle can also affect its motion in the electric field. Finally, the strength of the electric field will determine the magnitude of the force exerted on the particle and thus impact its motion.
  • #1
simplicity12
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Homework Statement


3. Two electrons are fired at 3.5 x 10^6 m/s directly at each other.
a)Calculate the smallest possible between the two electrons.


Homework Equations


Ek= 1/2mv^2
Ee= kq1q2/r


The Attempt at a Solution


I made the Ek and the Ee equal, but i keep on getting the wrong answer. Can someone please help me?
 
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  • #2
What does Ek represent physically? (what is m? v?)
 
  • #3
Please show us your work so we can point out where the error is.
 

1. What is the motion of a charged particle in an electric field?

The motion of a charged particle in an electric field is determined by the interaction between the electric field and the charge of the particle. The particle will experience a force in the direction of the electric field, causing it to move in a straight line.

2. How does the velocity of a charged particle change in an electric field?

The velocity of a charged particle in an electric field will change as the force from the electric field accelerates or decelerates the particle. The magnitude and direction of the velocity will depend on the strength and direction of the electric field as well as the charge and mass of the particle.

3. What is the difference between a positive and negative charged particle in an electric field?

In an electric field, a positive charged particle will be repelled by the field and move in the same direction as the field, while a negative charged particle will be attracted to the field and move in the opposite direction. This is due to the opposite charges of the particle and the field.

4. Can the motion of a charged particle in an electric field be affected by the particle's initial velocity?

Yes, the initial velocity of a charged particle can affect its motion in an electric field. If the initial velocity is in the same direction as the electric field, the particle will experience a greater acceleration. If the initial velocity is in the opposite direction, the particle will experience a deceleration and may even change direction.

5. How does the strength of the electric field affect the motion of a charged particle?

The strength of the electric field will determine the magnitude of the force exerted on the charged particle, which in turn will affect its motion. A stronger electric field will result in a greater force and therefore a larger acceleration of the particle. This can lead to a faster or more significant change in the particle's velocity and direction.

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