Why Does the Shuttle-Ball Experiment Graph Show Only Straight Lines?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the inverse proportionality relation between electric potential energy and distance, specifically in the context of a point charge between parallel plates. It is noted that the graph of this relationship is composed of straight lines rather than concave upward slopes. The properties of the electric field between the plates are described as nearly uniform and varying linearly. This leads to the conclusion that the force acting on the ball as it moves between the plates is constant, and the work done varies linearly with distance.
  • #1
superconduct
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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



By the inverse proportionality relation between electric potential energy and distance, why is the graph composed of straight lines only but not concave upwards slopes? My sketch and the solution are attached below.
 

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  • #2
superconduct said:
By the inverse proportionality relation between electric potential energy and distance, why is the graph composed of straight lines only but not concave upwards slopes?

When you say "inverse proportionality" between U and distance, are you thinking of U = kq1q2/r? That formula is for the potential energy of two point charges. But the problem deals with a point charge between parallel plates.
 
  • #3
yeah I was thinking of that.
So the relation when in parallel plates is linear? Why??
 
  • #4
Can you describe the properties of the electric field between the plates?
 
  • #5
the electric field is nearly uniform and varies linearly across the plates?
 
  • #6
superconduct said:
the electric field is nearly uniform and varies linearly across the plates?

E is (nearly) uniform, which means that it essentially doesn't vary at all as you move from one plate to the other. So, what can you conclude about the force acting on the ball as it moves between the plates?
 
  • #7
The force is constant and work done varies linearly with distance?
 
  • #8
superconduct said:
The force is constant and work done varies linearly with distance?

Yes, that's right.
 
  • #9
thanks a lot for clearing my concepts :)
 

Related to Why Does the Shuttle-Ball Experiment Graph Show Only Straight Lines?

1. What is a Shuttle-ball experiment?

A Shuttle-ball experiment is a scientific experiment that involves launching a small ball from a shuttle or spacecraft, and studying its motion and trajectory in a microgravity environment.

2. What is the purpose of a Shuttle-ball experiment?

The purpose of a Shuttle-ball experiment is to study the effects of microgravity on the motion and behavior of objects. This can provide valuable insights into the laws of motion and help us understand how objects behave in environments with minimal or no gravitational force.

3. How is a Shuttle-ball experiment conducted?

A Shuttle-ball experiment is typically conducted using a specially designed apparatus that can launch a small ball into a microgravity environment. The apparatus is usually placed inside a spacecraft or shuttle, and the ball is launched using a spring or compressed air.

4. What types of data can be collected from a Shuttle-ball experiment?

From a Shuttle-ball experiment, scientists can collect data on the ball's acceleration, velocity, and trajectory in microgravity. They can also observe any changes in the ball's behavior compared to its behavior on Earth, such as changes in spin or direction.

5. What are the potential applications of Shuttle-ball experiments?

Shuttle-ball experiments can have various applications, including improving our understanding of the laws of motion, developing advanced propulsion systems, and designing spacecraft and satellites that can perform better in microgravity environments. They can also have practical uses in sports equipment design and the development of toys and games.

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