Electric potential no clue and midterm in 2 and a half hours

In summary, the conversation discusses the initial speed required for a proton to reach the surface of an iron atom's nucleus, using equations such as conservation of energy and kinematics. The correct solution is determined and a question about an equation for wire diameter is posed.
  • #1
cemar.
41
0

Homework Statement


A proton is fired from far away toward the nucleus of an iron atom. Iron is the element number 26 and the diameter of the nucleus is 9.0fm. What initial speed does the proton need to just reach the surface of the nucleus? Assume the nucleus remains at rest.


Homework Equations


Conservation of energy which would get reduced to Ki=Uf
U=kq1q2/r
kinematic equation
K = 1/2 m v^2
Do some thing with the element number 26... has 26 protons so make a field?


The Attempt at a Solution


Oh gosh. K this is completely wrong but ill just throw it out there for kicks.
Ki=Uf
Since i don't knwo what r is since its sperical and that confuses me... ill guess you use the distance on the surface of the nucleus?
1/2mv^2 = kq1q2/r
1/2 (1.67E-27) v^2 = 9E9 (1.6E-19) (26*1.6E-19) / 4.5fm
v = 350192

the answer is 3.99E7

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
cemar. said:
1/2mv^2 = kq1q2/r
1/2 (1.67E-27) v^2 = 9E9 (1.6E-19) (26*1.6E-19) / 4.5fm
This is perfectly correct, just redo your arithmetic. (Change fm to standard units.)
 
  • #3
Seriously?!? thanks!
Im a mess! :S
You wouldn't happen to know and equation concerning the diameter of a wire with length and current and all that jazz would you??
 
  • #4
cemar. said:
You wouldn't happen to know and equation concerning the diameter of a wire with length and current and all that jazz would you??
Not sure what you're asking. If you post a complete problem, I can take a look.
 

What is electric potential?

Electric potential is a measure of the amount of work needed to move a unit of charge from one point to another in an electric field. It is measured in volts (V) and is also known as voltage.

How is electric potential different from electric field?

Electric field is a physical quantity that describes the strength and direction of the force exerted on a charged particle. Electric potential, on the other hand, is the amount of electric potential energy that a unit of charge possesses at a given point in an electric field.

Is electric potential a scalar or a vector quantity?

Electric potential is a scalar quantity, meaning it only has a magnitude and no direction. This is because it is a measure of the potential energy per unit charge at a point in an electric field, rather than a force acting in a specific direction.

What factors affect electric potential?

The electric potential at a point is affected by the amount of charge present, the distance from the source of the electric field, and the medium in which the charges are interacting. It is also affected by the presence of other charges in the vicinity.

How can I prepare for a midterm on electric potential in a short amount of time?

Some tips for preparing for a midterm on electric potential in a short amount of time include reviewing class notes and lecture slides, practicing problems from the textbook or past exams, and seeking help from classmates or a tutor if needed. It may also be helpful to create a study guide or flashcards to review key concepts and equations.

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