Calculating the speed using Potential graph

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the speed of a positron using potential graphs, specifically addressing the effects of a 200V electric field. The calculations utilize the conservation of energy principle, represented by the equation Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf, where the initial kinetic energy is derived from the positron's mass and initial velocity of 1 x 10^7 m/s. The final velocity calculated is 9.9 x 10^33 m/s, indicating that the positron maintains its speed despite the presence of a constant potential of 500V applied over a distance of 0.2m to 0.5m. The discussion raises questions about the behavior of the positron at x=0 and its potential reflection within the field.

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Physicslearner500039
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Homework Statement
A positron (charge +e, mass equal to the electron mass) is moving at 1.0 X 107 m/s in the positive direction of an x axis when, at x = 0, it encounters an electric field directed along the x axis. The
electric potential V associated with the field is given in Fig. 24-52. The scale of the vertical axis is set by Vs = 500.0 V. (a) Does the positron emerge from the field at x = 0 (which means its motion is reversed) or at x = 0.50 m (which means its motion is not reversed)? (b) What is its speed when it emerges?
Relevant Equations
NA
P24_54.PNG

My attempt, pictorially it looks like

1587785318835.png


I am confused with the questions (a). Does the positron emerge from the field at x =0? There is no potential at x=0, so the positron will continue with the same speed hence its motion is not reversed.
For the (b). The maximum volt is 200V, if i apply the Ui+Ki = Uf+Kf;

0.5*mp*v_ini^2 = 500*e + 0.5*mp*v_fin^2; mp -> mass of proton, v_init = 1*10^7m/s

0.5*1.67*10^-27 * 10^14 = (500*1.69*10^-19) + (0.5*1.67*10^-27*V_fin^2)

Solving for V_fin = 9.9*10^33 m/s; The positron continues with this speed. Even the constant potential of 500V is applied continuously from 0.2m to 0.5m why the speed is not decreasing? Please advise.
 
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Physicslearner500039 said:
Does the positron emerge from the field at x =0? There is no potential at x=0, so the positron will continue with the same speed
It does not mean immediately. It is asking whether the positron makes it through or gets reflected somewhere along the field.
 

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