Did I Misunderstand the Direction of Force on the Electron in an Electric Field?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the direction of force acting on an electron within an electric field, specifically addressing the implications of the electron's negative charge in relation to the field's orientation.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to clarify their understanding of how the force on the electron is determined by the electric field direction, questioning whether the force indeed acts downward due to the electron's negative charge.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in verifying calculations related to the problem, with some checking the sign of acceleration and others expressing uncertainty about the final answer. There is a focus on ensuring that the calculations align with the conceptual understanding of force direction.

Contextual Notes

There is a reference to a figure that is not visible in the discussion, which may limit the clarity of the problem context. Additionally, the final answer to the problem is not provided, leading to further inquiry among participants.

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Homework Statement



See figure attached for problem statement.

attachment.php?attachmentid=31555&stc=1&d=1295806460.jpg


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I think my main source of confusion is this problem is how the force is acting on the electron.

The picture shows that the electric field is pointing straight up, but since its acting on an electron (negative charge) the force will be in the opposite direction correct? (i.e. straight down)

If this is the case the acceleration the electron experiences is a vertical acceleration downwards.

Anyways, here's my attempt at the problem,

attachment.php?attachmentid=31556&stc=1&d=1295806460.jpg


Did I make any mistakes?
 

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Check your calculation for Vyfinal, A is downwards and therefore negative
 
cupid.callin said:
Check your calculation for Vyfinal, A is downwards and therefore negative

Wait, I'm getting the same number, 0.83m/s ?
 
i thought its 083! sorry,

everything else seems fine

what's the correct answer?
 
cupid.callin said:
i thought its 083! sorry,

everything else seems fine

what's the correct answer?

I don't know it's not given. I was wanting to check that as well.
 

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