Charge density of a infinite straight wire

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the nearest distance of approach of a proton shot toward an infinite straight wire with charge density. The user attempts to apply energy conservation principles, equating initial kinetic energy to potential energy, but struggles with the dependence on the wire's length. Clarifications are sought regarding the proton's trajectory and the nature of the charge on the wire, emphasizing the need for specific details about the initial conditions. Additionally, the conversation highlights the importance of understanding how electric potential and electric field vary with distance from an infinite line charge. The thread underscores the complexities involved in solving problems related to charged wires and particle interactions.
caheobong
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Hi, I am new to this forum. I have a question on one of the physics problem.
a proton is shot with a speed v from the point a in the vicinity of a infinite straight wire carrying a charge density. in term of these variables determine the nearest distance of approach.



Homework Equations



Ki+Ui=Kf +Uf
Ui=0, Kf=0
U= (K*q1*q2)/d

The Attempt at a Solution


so this is what I have done so far:
first I set Ki+Ui=Kf+Uf
since Ui=0, Kf=0 then
Ki=Uf
Ki= (1/2)*m*(v^2) ( m is mass of proton)
Uf= (k*q1*q2)/d ( d is the distance we looking for, q1=e proton, q2= charge density *L)
set Uf=Ki and solve for d
d= (e * charge density * L)/ ( mass of proton * (V^2) * 2 * pi * Eo)

This is my attempt how to solve this problem. however this is an infinite charge wire, the result should not depend on L the length of the wire. So please help me. any hints will help.Thank you so much.
 
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It looks like some important details are missing:
Is the proton shot directly at the line charge? (Then the line charge must be positive for the question to make sense.)

If so, is its path perpendicular to the line charge?

If not, then there are details missing regarding the direction of the initial velocity relative to the location of the line charge. Also, the sign of the line charge would need to be specified.​
U = kq1q2d is the potential energy for two point charges, q1, q2, separated by distance d.

What is the difference in electric potential at distances dinitial & dother from an infinite line charge, with linear density, λ ?

.
 
In the picture, the proton is shot directly toward the charged line, maybe perpendicular
 
caheobong said:
In the picture, the proton is shot directly toward the charged line, maybe perpendicular
That's what I would expect, both directly toward the charged line, and perpendicular to it.

Do you know how electric potential varies with distance from an infinitely long line charge? If not, do you know how electric field varies with distance from an infinitely long line charge?
 
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