# Accelerating Ions through semicircular plates

1. Jan 27, 2009

### tmvphil

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Hey guys, this is from Purcell 3.19
"Ions are accelerated through a potential difference $$V_0$$ and then enter the space between the semicylindrical electrodes A and B. Show that an ion will follow the semicircular path of radius $$r_0$$ if the potentials of the outer and inner electrodes are maintained, respectively, at $$2V_0*ln(b/r_0)$$ and $$2V_0*ln(a/r_0)$$."

2. Relevant equations

3. The attempt at a solution
Well i started with
$$q*V_0 = KE = (mv^2)/2$$
so
$$V^2 = (2qV_0)/m$$
which combined with the rotational motion eq
$$E = F/q = (mv^2)/(qr_0) = (2V_0)/r_0$$
but i can't think of any way to pin down what the field is between the two cylinders.
just looking at the solution provided it seems like i should integrate the final equation for a variable r from b to r-nought and a to r-nought. I just don't know why. Any way to elucidate this for me?

#### Attached Files:

• ###### purcell.png
File size:
1.9 KB
Views:
60
Last edited: Jan 28, 2009
2. Jan 28, 2009

### tmvphil

Attached a diagram (sorry for the paint) if it helps make it clearer