Uniform Electric Fields

In summary, a proton suspended at rest in a uniform electric field E is subject to the forces of both gravity and the electric field, and the equation FE=|q|E can be used to determine the value of E by dividing the force on the proton by its charge. In this case, the value of E is 1.04x10^-9.
  • #1
EtherMD
7
0

Homework Statement


A proton (m=1.67x10^-27) is suspended at rest in a uniform electric field E. Take into account gravity and determine E.


Homework Equations


FE=|q|E
Fg=mg


The Attempt at a Solution


FG = mg
FG = (1.67x10-27)(9.8)
FG = 1.64 x 10-26

Since the force on the proton due to the E field is equal and opposite, then:
FE=|q|E
FE / q= E
(1.64x10-26) / (1.6x10-19) = E
1.04x10-9 = E


Is my work correct?
 
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  • #2
EtherMD said:
Since the force on the proton due to the E field is equal and opposite, then:
FE=|q|E
FE / q= E
(1.64x10-26) / (1.6x10-19) = E
1.04x10-9 = E

Have you handled your exponents correctly?
 
  • #3
Probably not, but does the way I reached my answer make sense?
 
  • #4
Yes the steps are correct, just a calculation error.
 

1. What is a uniform electric field?

A uniform electric field, also known as a constant electric field, is a region in space where the strength and direction of the electric field is the same at all points. This means that the electric field lines are parallel and evenly spaced.

2. How is a uniform electric field created?

A uniform electric field can be created by placing two parallel plates with opposite charges (positive and negative) close to each other. This configuration produces a constant electric field between the plates.

3. What is the difference between a uniform electric field and a non-uniform electric field?

A uniform electric field has the same strength and direction at all points, while a non-uniform electric field has varying strengths and/or directions at different points. In a non-uniform electric field, the electric field lines are not parallel and evenly spaced.

4. How is the strength of a uniform electric field measured?

The strength of a uniform electric field is measured by the electric field intensity, which is equal to the force per unit charge exerted on a test charge placed in the field. It is measured in units of volts per meter (V/m).

5. What are some real-life applications of uniform electric fields?

Uniform electric fields are used in a variety of applications, including in cathode ray tubes (CRT) for television and computer screens, in particle accelerators, and in capacitors used in electronic devices. They are also used in medical equipment such as MRI machines and in the Van de Graaff generator for creating static electricity.

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