Electrostatic force of attraction between two particles

AI Thread Summary
In the discussed homework problem, a proton and an electron are positioned symmetrically on the x-axis and released simultaneously, with the only force being their mutual electrostatic attraction. The key point is that while the forces acting on both particles are equal, their differing masses result in different accelerations; the electron, having a smaller mass, accelerates faster than the proton. Consequently, the electron will reach the origin first due to its higher acceleration. This conclusion aligns with Newton's second law, which relates force, mass, and acceleration. The discussion confirms that the electron's speed will allow it to arrive at the origin before the proton.
Midgela25
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The homework problem reads as follows:

A proton and an electron are held in place on the x axis. The proton is at x=-d, while the electron is at x=+d. They are released simultaneously, and the only force that affects their motions is the electrostatic force of attraction that each applies to the other. Which particle reaches the origin first?

Homework Equations



Newtons second law

The Attempt at a Solution




Without any provided numbers, won't they reach the origin at the same time?
 
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im not an expert so I am not 100% sure but...

a=F/m

the forces acting on each other is equal but the masses are different.

the proton, which has a bigger mass, will have a slower acceleration

the electron, which has a smaller mass, will have a faster acceleration.

in my conclusion, i think the electron will reach the origin first. please correct me if I am wrong
 
Last edited:
Midgela25 said:
The homework problem reads as follows:

A proton and an electron are held in place on the x axis. The proton is at x=-d, while the electron is at x=+d. They are released simultaneously, and the only force that affects their motions is the electrostatic force of attraction that each applies to the other. Which particle reaches the origin first?

Homework Equations



Newtons second law

The Attempt at a Solution




Without any provided numbers, won't they reach the origin at the same time?

Welcome to PF.

It would seem that kyrax has grasped the situation correctly.

kyrax said:
the electron, which has a smaller mass, will have a faster acceleration.
 
Thanks for your help guys!
 
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