Comparing KE of Electron & Alpha Particle w/ Same R of Curvature

[doggitz]

Homework Statement

Suppose that I want to compare the Kinetic Energy of an electron to the Kinetic Energy of an alpha particle if they both have the same radius of curvature in a magnetic field.

Homework Equations

qvB = mv^2/r
KE = 1/2 mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution

I am studying for my PE and I have run across this problem. I just want to know if the equations that I show are the correct ones for this problem. I am wondering if I have to set two (2) versions of these equations equal to each other (one for electron -- one for a-particle) ??

If anyone has a solution then please share it with me.

 

[diazona]

Have you tried working the problem all the way through? It shouldn't be hard...

 

[nlightner]

Yes, your equations are correct for calculating the kinetic energy of an electron and an alpha particle in a magnetic field with the same radius of curvature. To compare the kinetic energies, you can set the two equations equal to each other and solve for the velocity of the particles. This will give you the velocity at which both particles will have the same kinetic energy in the magnetic field.

Alternatively, you can also calculate the ratio of the kinetic energies by dividing one equation by the other. This will give you a numerical value that represents the ratio of the kinetic energies of the electron and alpha particle.

It's important to note that the mass and charge of the particles are different, so this will also affect the kinetic energies and the ratio. The alpha particle has a larger mass and charge than the electron, so it will have a higher kinetic energy at the same velocity.

I hope this helps and good luck with your PE exam!