# Electric Fields and protons

1. Aug 13, 2012

### Knightycloud

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Two protons that has a 'm' mass and '+q' charge appears suddenly at the time t=0 as the picture shows. The distance from A to B is 'd0'. They start there motion from 0 velocity and move towards B.
1. What are the t1 and t2 times that are taken by the two masses to get to the plate B???
2. What are the v1 and v2 velocities that are taken by the two masses when they get to the plate B???
3. Then they leave the plate B and get to a distance 'S' at the same time. Area BS is field-less. Find 'S' using v1, v2, t1 and t2

2. Relevant equations
W = Vq = 1/2mv2
F = Eq
F = ma
E = V/d
S = ut + 1/2at2

3. The attempt at a solution
1. Vq/d0 = ma
S = 1/2at2 → t = $\sqrt{2S/a}$

2. 1/2mv2 = Vd1χq/d0

#### Attached Files:

• ###### 2.JPG
File size:
4.4 KB
Views:
47
2. Aug 14, 2012

### Simon Bridge

Of course, it also helps to ask a question.

From what I can tell, you think there is some acceleration in the region between B and S and that S has something to do with Q1.
I don't know why you used a chi in Q2.
But if you don't talk about it - how do I know what you are thinking?

3. Aug 14, 2012

### Knightycloud

There is no acceleration in that B to S region. Plus I thought "χ" as the multiplication sign :D
Those two masses leave B at the velocities v1 and v2. Never mind that B to S part thingy. Did I get that t1, t2, v1 and v2 parts correctly??? :D

4. Aug 14, 2012

### Simon Bridge

Ah, that S in part (1) does not refer to the BS region (which is aptly named btw because it is magically free of any fields :) )

So, you are making me guess your reasoning then? OK...

For part (1) it looks like you are using F=ma, then you want to put that "a" into a kinematic equation? If S is supposed to stand for dx where x = {1,2} then that one will work.

For part (2) it looks like you are using conservation of energy? Good call - you can also do it from kinematic equations.

I won't fault this approach - but your core problem is that you shouldn't need reassuring. The main reason students get nervous about their work at this stage is because they are applying equations instead of understanding the physics. One way of reassuring yourself is to use some method that helps you visualize things. eg.

You should draw v-t graphs for the entire motion - bearing in mind they start and end at the same time, and have the same acceleration in the first stage, but q2 accelerates for a shorter time.

Use the displacement = area and acceleration = slope.
The graphs are triangles and rectangles: easy geometry!

This is a very powerful tool, means you don't need to memorize the kinematic equations, and you avoid those niggly doubts.

5. Aug 15, 2012

### Knightycloud

Thanks!!!

6. Aug 15, 2012

### Simon Bridge

Cool - have fun.