Calculating the Minimum Proton Speed Near a Lead Nucleus

In summary, the minimum speed of a 20.0MeV proton passing within 1.0x10^-13 meters of a lead nucleus with 82 protons can be predicted by calculating the proton's kinetic energy and electric potential energy, taking into account the conversion of MeV to joules.
  • #1
Gurneet
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1. Predict the minumum speed of a 20.0MeV proton as it passes within 1.0x10^-13 meters of a lead nucleus having 82 protons. (Note: 1eV = 1.6x10^-19 Joules)



2. How do I start off?



3. All i can think of is to get a charge for the lead nucleus by using q=ne which is the number of electrons/protons multiplied by the fundamental charge(1.6x10^-19) and also convert the MeV into joules using the note given at the end of the question.
 
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  • #2
Welcome to physics forums.
Gurneet said:
1. Predict the minumum speed of a 20.0MeV proton as it passes within 1.0x10^-13 meters of a lead nucleus having 82 protons. (Note: 1eV = 1.6x10^-19 Joules)

2. How do I start off?

3. All i can think of is to get a charge for the lead nucleus by using q=ne which is the number of electrons/protons multiplied by the fundamental charge(1.6x10^-19) and also convert the MeV into joules using the note given at the end of the question.
That's a start. Think in terms of the proton's kinetic energy and (electric) potential energy -- you'll need to look up the equations for those, if you don't know them.
 

1. How is the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus calculated?

The minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus can be calculated using the formula v = √(2E/m), where v is the speed of the proton, E is the energy of the proton, and m is the mass of the proton. This formula takes into account the potential energy of the proton in the electric field of the lead nucleus.

2. What is the significance of calculating the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus?

Calculating the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus is important for understanding the behavior of particles in nuclear reactions and for predicting the stability of an atom. This calculation can also help to determine the energy required to overcome the electric repulsion between the proton and the lead nucleus.

3. What factors influence the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus?

The minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus is affected by the electric charge of the proton and the lead nucleus, as well as the distance between them. Additionally, the mass of the proton and the energy of the proton also play a role in determining the minimum speed.

4. Can the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus be measured experimentally?

Yes, the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus can be measured experimentally using a particle accelerator. By accelerating protons towards a lead nucleus and measuring the speed at which they collide, scientists can determine the minimum speed required for the proton to overcome the electric repulsion and reach the nucleus.

5. Are there any other factors that should be considered when calculating the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus?

Yes, in addition to the electric potential energy, other factors such as the strong nuclear force and the spin of the particles may also influence the minimum proton speed near a lead nucleus. However, these effects are typically small and can be neglected in most calculations.

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