A gun that fired charged particles

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SUMMARY

A charged particle gun accelerates a 5-μC charge through a potential difference of 50,000 V, resulting in a kinetic energy conversion. The equation used is EPE = KE, specifically (1/2)qV = (1/2)mv². The correct velocity calculation yields 4.5 m/s, while the initial calculation mistakenly resulted in 3.16 m/s due to a misapplication of the formula for electrical potential energy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical potential energy (EPE) and kinetic energy (KE)
  • Familiarity with the formula (1/2)qV for calculating energy
  • Basic knowledge of mass and velocity in physics
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations to solve for unknowns
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the energy conservation principle in physics
  • Study the relationship between electric potential and kinetic energy in charged particle systems
  • Learn about the implications of charge and mass on particle acceleration
  • Explore common pitfalls in applying physics formulas in problem-solving
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and energy conservation principles, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to charged particle dynamics.

Dart82
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Homework Statement


A gun that fires charged particles accelerates a 5-μC charge from rest through a potential difference of 50,000 V. The particle has a mass of 0.025 kg. With what speed does it leave the gun?


Homework Equations


EPE = KE
(1/2)qV = (1/2)mv^2 , solve for v^2



The Attempt at a Solution


EPE = (1/2) x (5^-6 Coulombs) x (50,000 Volts)

KE = (1/2) x ( 0.025kg) x (v^2)

where the problem lies:
When i solve for velocity i get 3.16 m/s, however the answer my teacher gave to this problem was 4.5 m/s. Am i missing something here??
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Are you sure that the electrical potential energy is (1/2)qV?
 
ahhh...nothing like a good 'ole misprint on the formula sheet to trip you up. thanks for the insight!
 

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