Electrostatic force of attraction between two particles

[Midgela25]

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?

 

[kyrax]

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

 

[LowlyPion]

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.

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

 

[Midgela25]

Thanks for your help guys!