Electric Potential of a Proton Question

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the speed of a proton as it moves through different electric potentials. Given the initial speed of the proton at point A (53,000 m/s) and the electric potentials V1 (15 V), V2 (10 V), and V3 (5 V), the final speed at point B is determined using the conservation of energy principle. The solution employs the formula vB^2 = vA^2 + (2q/m)[V(A) - V(B)], leading to a final speed of approximately 68,739.85 m/s. Key parameters include the mass of the proton (1.67e-27 kg) and its charge (1.6e-19 C).

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  • Familiarity with the conservation of energy principle in physics
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  • Basic algebra and square root calculations
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of charged particles in electric fields, particularly in the context of energy conservation principles.

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A proton's speed as it passes point A is 53,000 m/s. It follows the trajectory shown in the figure below, in which V1 = 15 V and V3 = 5 V. What is the proton's speed at point B?

Figure: http://www.webassign.net/knight/p29-44alt.gif

Homework Statement


Mass of proton: 1.67e-27
Charge of proton: 1.6e-19
Difference in Electric Potential
velocity at point A: 53000m/s
V1 = 15V
V2 = 10V
V3 = 5V

Homework Equations


KE=1/2mv^2
V=(kq)/r
V=Ed

The Attempt at a Solution


10q=1/2mv^2
v=sqrt(20*1.6e-19/1.67e-27)
 
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Last edited:
never mind I got the solution:

KE(B) + PE(B) = KE(A) + PE(A)

(1/2)mvB^2 + qV(B) = (1/2)mvA^2 + qV(A)\

vB^2 = vA^2 + (2q/m)[V(A) - V(B)]

Answer: 68739.85m/s

I should have known it was a simple conservation of energy problem
 

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