Determining force on an electron, possibly easy force problem(PLEASE HELP)

In summary, an electron with a mass of 9.11 x 10^-31 kg has an initial speed of 4.00 x 10^5 m/s, and its speed increases to 7.00 x 10^5 m/s in a distance of 5.00 cm. The task at hand is to determine the force exerted on the electron, assuming its acceleration is constant. The student is unsure of where to begin, but it is suggested to start by identifying the given data and conditions. The use of scientific notation may be throwing the student off, but converting all units into basic units should help.
  • #1
unoriginal
6
0

Homework Statement


An electron of mass 9.11 multiplied by 10^-31 kg has an initial speed of 4.00 multiplied by 10^5 m/s. It travels in a straight line, and its speed increases to 7.00 multiplied by 10^5 m/s in a distance of 5.00 cm.

(a) Assuming its acceleration is constant, determine the force exerted on the electron.

(b) What is the ratio of this force to the weight of the electron, which we neglected?

Homework Equations


i think you need some kinematics equations not sure though

The Attempt at a Solution


havent figured out where to start
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Hi unoriginal, welcome to PF.

unoriginal said:
havent figured out where to start

Why not? Let's start with part a) as its relatively straight forward. A good first step is to identify what data is given and what conditions are imposed.

For example, you are given the "mass". What other data are you given? What is the condition as described in part a).
 
  • #3
to be honest its the whole scientific notation thing that's throwing me off lol
 
  • #4
Okay, then make sure all of your units are in basic units; that is, kilograms, meters, seconds. Then you should be fine.
 

1. What is the formula for determining the force on an electron?

The formula for determining the force on an electron is F = k(q1q2)/r^2, where F is the force, k is the Coulomb's constant (9 x 10^9 Nm^2/C^2), q1 and q2 are the charges of the two objects interacting, and r is the distance between the two objects.

2. How do I determine the direction of the force on an electron?

The direction of the force on an electron can be determined using the right hand rule. Point your thumb in the direction of the electron's velocity, and your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field. The force will be perpendicular to both your thumb and fingers.

3. What are the units of force on an electron?

The units of force on an electron are Newtons (N). One Newton is equal to 1 kg*m/s^2.

4. Can the force on an electron be negative?

Yes, the force on an electron can be negative. This means that the force is acting in the opposite direction of the electron's velocity.

5. How is the force on an electron affected by the distance between two objects?

The force on an electron is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between two objects. This means that as the distance between two objects increases, the force on the electron decreases.

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