Electric Field Homework: Rank Protons by Acceleration

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on ranking the accelerations of five protons launched in a uniform electric field, utilizing the equations of motion and electric force. Key equations include F = Q x E and a = F/m, where Q is the charge of the proton (1.6 x 10-19 C) and m is the mass of the proton (1.67 x 10-27 kg). Participants concluded that all protons experience the same acceleration in a uniform electric field, regardless of their initial velocities, as acceleration is independent of these factors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and forces (E = F/Q)
  • Knowledge of Newton's second law (F = ma)
  • Familiarity with the properties of protons (charge and mass)
  • Basic grasp of kinematics and energy equations (KE = 1/2 mv2)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of uniform electric fields and their properties
  • Learn how to derive acceleration from electric force equations
  • Explore the implications of charge and mass on particle motion in electric fields
  • Investigate the relationship between kinetic energy and motion in electric fields
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to electric fields and particle dynamics.

  • #31
gneill said:
That's not a problem, it's a bonus and a clear result! You now now that the acceleration does not depend upon direction or speed or distance; It only depends on the charge, the mass, and the electric field. So what can you conclude for the different cases presented?
Their accelerations are the same?? That just doesn't seem like him. (professor)
 
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  • #32
Philip KP said:
Their accelerations are the same?? That just doesn't seem like him. (professor)
Yes, the accelerations are all identical. It is the correct result for the question in the form it was given.

The question may seem like a trick, or perhaps it is incorrect due to a typo or otherwise, yet even so it got you to think about the physics of the situation.
 
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  • #33
Ok thanks gneill and berkeman. I guess you guys had said their accelerations were same in the beginning but it definitely helped figuring out why. I''ll talk to my professor tomorrow and I think it's actually due Tuesday so if there's something I'm missing I'll bring it up tomorrow?

Thanks!
 
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  • #34
Philip KP said:
Ok thanks gneill and berkeman. I guess you guys had said their accelerations were same in the beginning but it definitely helped figuring out why. I''ll talk to my professor tomorrow and I think it's actually due Tuesday so if there's something I'm missing I'll bring it up tomorrow?
That would be fine!
Thanks!
You're very welcome.
 

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