Calculating Current of Alpha Particle Beam

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the current of a beam of alpha particles, specifically focusing on the relationship between the number of particles, their charge, and the time interval over which they pass a point.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the application of the current formula I=q/t, questioning how to calculate the total charge from the number of alpha particles and their individual charge.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on determining the charge of an alpha particle and how to calculate the total charge based on the number of particles. There is an ongoing exploration of how to incorporate the given values into the equation.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the charge of alpha particles and its relevance to the problem, indicating some uncertainty about how to proceed with the calculations based on the information provided.

Jabababa
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Homework Statement



If a beam of 9.39 x10^20 alpha particles passes a given point in 1.50s, what is the current?

Homework Equations



I=q/t

The Attempt at a Solution



umm the answer is 2.00 x 10^2 A, not sure where to begin. Would be a great help if someone can point me to the right direction.
 
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Just apply the equation you wrote in section 2.
 
umm can you show me? I don't see how that can come out to be 2.00 x 10^2 A.
 
What's the charge on an alpha particle?
Then you can work out the total charge passing the point in the 1.50s interval.
Then just apply the equation.
 
The charge of an alpha particle is +2.
How do i find the total charge? Because i don't know how to incorporate the 9.39 x10^20 part of the question into the equation.
 
Jabababa said:
The charge of an alpha particle is +2.
How do i find the total charge? Because i don't know how to incorporate the 9.39 x10^20 part of the question into the equation.

Charge is measured in Coulombs when using the standard equations !
 
The charge on one alpha particle is 2e
What's the charge on x alpha particles?
 
woot, thank you! I got it.
 

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