Angle of deflection of electron

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the angle of deflection of an electron projected horizontally between two parallel plates with a positive upper plate and a negative lower plate. The electron, with an initial velocity of 6.0 x 106 m/s, experiences a constant electric force of 3.4 x 10-17 N. The key to solving the problem lies in determining the time the electron spends between the plates, which is essential for calculating its vertical displacement and resultant angle upon exiting the plates.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric forces and fields
  • Knowledge of kinematics, particularly projectile motion
  • Familiarity with basic physics equations related to motion
  • Concept of time of flight in a uniform electric field
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the time the electron spends between the plates using the length of the plates and its horizontal velocity.
  • Determine the vertical displacement of the electron while it is between the plates.
  • Use trigonometric functions to find the angle of deflection based on the vertical displacement and horizontal distance.
  • Explore the effects of varying electric field strengths on the trajectory of charged particles.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and kinematics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of particle motion in electric fields.

azs8t1
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Homework Statement


2 parallel plates of length 4.0 cm are arranged horizontally in a vacuum. The upper plate is positively charged and the lower plate is negatively charged. An electron is projected horizontally with an initial velocity of 6.0 x 106 ms-1 and experiences a constant electric force of 3.4 x 10-17 N whilst between the plates. Negating any gravitational effects, find the angle the electron makes with the horizontal on leaving the plates.

Homework Equations


Not that I know of

The Attempt at a Solution


The electron experiences an attractive force of 3.4 x 10-17 N towards the positively charged plate. I don't know the horizontal component of the force acting on the electron so I can't calculate the resultant force.
 
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azs8t1 said:
I don't know the horizontal component of the force acting on the electron so I can't calculate the resultant force.
What makes you think there is a horizontal component or force?
 
you know the horizontal VELOCITY..can you calculate the time that the electron is between the plates?
 

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