What is the Velocity of Electrons between Charged Plates?

In summary, a beam of electrons with a kinetic energy of 500eV enters between two oppositely charged parallel plates with a potential difference of 100V. Using the equation KE=0.5mv^2, the velocity of the electrons can be determined to be 5.93x10^5 m/s. However, a more accurate calculation of the velocity would also require determining the distance the electrons have traveled between the plates.
  • #1
Punch
44
0

Homework Statement



A beam of electrons, with kinetic energy of 500eV, enters mid-way into the space between two oppositely charged parallel plates with a potential difference of 100V

Homework Equations



Determine the velocity of the electrons

The Attempt at a Solution



KE=0.5mv^2
500(1.60x10^-19)=0.5(500 x 9.11 x 10^-31)(v^2)
v=5.93x10^5
 
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  • #2
First, this isn't really advanced physics, this should be in the introductory physics section.

Second, I have no idea what you did with your equation work. Why is there a 500 term in the mass for the electron? There is only 1 electron, in the beam there may be multiple electrons, but each one carries the same energy.

Also, determine the velocity WHERE? It will be different at different points throughout the apparatus.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Punch said:
KE=0.5mv^2
500(1.60x10^-19)=0.5(500 x 9.11 x 10^-31)(v^2)
v=5.93x10^5

what is that 500 doing there?

you have just found initial velocity (though it has a small error as i said above)

you also need to calculate the new velocity perpendicular to plates ... which depends on how far electrons have moved b/w the plates.
 

What is the velocity of electrons?

The velocity of electrons refers to the speed at which electrons move through a conductor or medium. It is usually measured in meters per second (m/s) or kilometers per second (km/s).

How is the velocity of electrons determined?

The velocity of electrons can be determined using various methods, such as the drift velocity equation, which takes into account the electric field and the mobility of the electrons in a material. Other methods include measuring the time of flight or using high-speed cameras to capture the movement of electrons.

What factors affect the velocity of electrons?

The velocity of electrons can be affected by several factors, including the type of material they are moving through, the temperature, and the presence of an electric field. In general, electrons move faster through conductors and at higher temperatures.

Can electrons reach the speed of light?

No, according to the theory of relativity, electrons (and all other particles with mass) cannot reach the speed of light. As they approach the speed of light, their mass increases, making it impossible for them to ever reach the speed of light.

Why is the velocity of electrons important?

The velocity of electrons is crucial in understanding and predicting the behavior of electricity and electronic devices. It also plays a crucial role in fields such as telecommunications, where the speed of electrons can affect the performance of devices and systems.

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