How Fast is the Electron Moving (Check My Work)

In summary, the conversation discusses the motion of an electron initially at rest in a vacuum near a positively-charged metal plate with a potential of +12,000V. Using the equations for potential energy and kinetic energy, the final velocity of the electron is calculated to be 6.50*10^7m/s assuming no other forces act on it. The mass of the electron is also given as 9.1*10^-31kg.
  • #1
chunkytuna21
37
0
An electron is initially at rest in a vacuum in a region where the potential is 0V. It is attracted by, and accelerates toward, a positively-charged metal plate at a potential of +12,000V. Assuming no other forces act on the electron, how fast is it moving when it hits the metal plate? Mass of electron is 9.1*10^-31kg

Delta PEe= qe(deltaV)...qe= 1.6*10^-19
KEi+PEi=KEf+PEf
KEf= PEi-PEf= -delta PE....because KEi is zero
1/2*m*vf^2= -qe(deltaV)
vf=[-2qe*deltaV/m]^1/2

Calculated PEe= (-1.6*10^-19)(12000)= -1.92*10^-15
Vf= [-2(-1.92*10^-15)/9.1*10^-31kg]^1/2= 6.50*10^7m/s
Final Answer: 6.50*10^7m/s

Is that correct? If not, where am I going wrong? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
It is correct.
 
  • #3
Great! Thanks.
 

1. How is the speed of an electron measured?

The speed of an electron is measured using a range of techniques, including the drift velocity method which measures the average speed of a large group of electrons, or the Fermi velocity method which measures the speed of a single electron.

2. What is the average speed of an electron?

The average speed of an electron varies depending on its surrounding environment. In a typical electrical circuit, the average speed of an electron is around 0.0002% of the speed of light, or approximately 2.2 million meters per second.

3. Can the speed of an electron change?

Yes, the speed of an electron can change depending on the forces acting upon it. For example, when an electron moves through a conductor, it can be slowed down by collisions with atoms and other electrons, thus changing its speed.

4. Is the speed of an electron constant?

No, the speed of an electron is not constant. It can vary depending on the energy levels and forces acting upon it. In some cases, electrons can even reach speeds close to the speed of light.

5. How does the speed of an electron relate to electricity?

The speed of an electron is a crucial factor in the flow of electricity. When a voltage difference is applied across a conductor, it creates an electric field that accelerates the electrons, causing them to move and carry the electric current. However, the speed of individual electrons is not the same as the speed of electricity, which is the propagation of changes in the electric field.

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