Angle of electron in an electric field

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the calculation of angles related to the motion of an electron in an electric field. The user initially attempted to use the formula tan(x) = sy/sx, which represents the angle between two points A and B. However, the correct approach is to use tan(x) = vy/vx, which reflects the angle of velocity at point B. The distinction between the angle of the trajectory and the angle of velocity is critical, as they yield different results, confirming that tan(θs) ≠ tan(θv).

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  • Understanding of basic trigonometry, specifically tangent functions.
  • Familiarity with kinematics, particularly velocity and displacement.
  • Knowledge of electric fields and their effects on charged particles.
  • Ability to interpret graphical representations of motion.
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Homework Statement



https://imgur.com/zEoCpc0
upload_2017-1-4_21-22-49.png


I am trying to figure put the angle and my attempt is tanx=sy/sx (I have calculated a value for the distances)

But my book is saying: tanx =vy/vx

I don't understand why my way of solving it is wrong... I don't get the same answer for x :/
 

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Suppose you drive your car around a corner from point A to point B. The direction you are traveling when you get to B is given by the direction of your velocity VB at B. The angle θ, such that tanθ = sy/sx, is the angle of the red line that connects points A and B. But this is not the direction that you are traveling at B.
upload_2017-1-4_17-51-27.png
 
You are calculating two different angles. Here tanθs≠tanθv. See this picture for clear explanation:
wj6ih.png

Original post link.
 

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