Does Electric Potential Energy Depend on the Mass of an Ion?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on whether electric potential energy (EPE) depends on the mass of an ion when it accelerates due to a potential difference. The key equation, ΔEPE = qΔV, indicates that EPE is determined by charge (q) and potential difference (ΔV), not mass. Although mass appears in the unit of energy (Joules), it does not influence the potential energy directly. Therefore, the conclusion is that EPE does not depend on the mass of the ion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential energy and its equations
  • Familiarity with the concepts of charge and potential difference
  • Basic knowledge of units of measurement in physics, particularly Joules and Coulombs
  • Comprehension of the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration
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  • Study the principles of electric potential and its applications in electrostatics
  • Explore the derivation and implications of the equation ΔEPE = qΔV
  • Investigate the role of mass in kinetic energy and its distinction from potential energy
  • Learn about the behavior of ions in electric fields and their motion dynamics
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Students in physics, educators teaching electrostatics, and anyone interested in the principles of electric potential energy and its relationship with mass and charge.

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Homework Statement


An ion, starting from rest, accelerates from point A to point B due to a potential difference between the two points. Does the electric potential energy of the ion at point B depend on it's mass?

Homework Equations


$$\Delta EPE = q \Delta V$$
$$[J]=[C\cdot \frac{J}{C}]$$
$$[J]=[N\cdot m]=[\frac{kg\cdot m^2}{s^2}]$$

The Attempt at a Solution


As can be seen in the third equation, the unit of EPE, [J] is given by it's mass [kg]. So the answer should be yes? Why is it not?
 
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Look at equation 1

" $$\Delta EPE = q \Delta V$$ "

Does the EPE here depend on mass?
 
Stephen Hodgson said:
Look at equation 1

" $$\Delta EPE = q \Delta V$$ "

Does the EPE here depend on mass?
Yes, since EPE depends on V and V depends on mass.

$$[V]=[\frac{J}{C}]=[\frac{N \cdot m}{C}] = [\frac{kg \cdot m^2}{C\cdot s^2}]$$
 
Who says it depends on mass? just because it includes kg in the units doesn't mean it depends on mass. If V=5 JC-1 everywhere, it doesn't matter how much you weigh... it's still 5.
 

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