Motion of point charges in electronic fields

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the trajectory of an electron in a uniform electric field of 35,000 N/C, starting from the origin (0,0) with an initial velocity of 5,000,000 m/s at a 45-degree angle. The force acting on the electron is determined using the formula F=qE, leading to a downward acceleration due to the electric field. By applying kinematic equations, participants can derive the point of impact on the x-axis, treating the motion similarly to projectile motion under gravity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically electric fields and forces.
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations for projectile motion.
  • Knowledge of the relationship between force, charge, and electric field (F=qE).
  • Basic vector decomposition skills for analyzing motion at angles.
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  • Study the derivation of kinematic equations for projectile motion.
  • Learn about the effects of electric fields on charged particles.
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  • Investigate numerical methods for simulating particle trajectories in electric fields.
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timtng
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An electron starts at the position (0,0) with an initial velocity 5,000,000 m/s at 45 degrees angle to the x axis. THe electric field is in the positive y direction and has a magnitude of 35000 N/C. At what location will the electron strikes?

Please help me setup this problem.
:confused:
 
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You really just have to think of this the same way you think of a projectile motion problem (an object acting under the influence of gravity.) The force on the electron is always down within the uniform electric field. This means the electron will strike somewhere on the x-axis. Since you know the charge, and the electric field it's in, you know the acceleration
(use F=qE and F=ma). Since you know the acceleration (and it's constant) use some kinematical relations and solve the problem.
 

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