Find Velocity of Electron: Combining Equations

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster is attempting to find the velocity of an electron using the concepts of kinetic energy and electrical energy. They have the electrical charge, mass, and voltage difference but are struggling to understand how to combine the equations for kinetic energy and change in electrical energy.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between kinetic energy and electrical energy, specifically questioning how the equations Ek = ½ mv² and ΔEe = QΔV can be combined. The original poster seeks clarification on the reasoning behind this combination.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the conservation of energy principle, suggesting that the potential difference used to accelerate the electron is converted into kinetic energy. However, the original poster still expresses confusion about the underlying reasoning for combining the equations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes a hint provided by a friend, which presents the final equation for velocity, but the original poster is uncertain about the justification for this equation based on their current understanding of the relevant physics concepts.

Narv
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I need to find the velocity of an electron, and the information i have is the Electrical Charge, Mass and voltage difference. The math itself won't be the problem, but combining the two equations below to give the third is driving me nuts.

I need someone to explain how Ek (kinetic energy) could equal ΔEe (change in electrical energy) so they can be combined, or if I am totally wrong, a point in the right direction:

Ek = ½ mv²

ΔEe = QΔV

To give:

v = √2QΔV/m

I was provided the final equation by a friend as a hint, and the only two equations i can find with relevant values are the two above, so I think I'm along the right track. Its just the reason WHY they can be combined that's confusing me.

Thank you.
 
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By conservation of energy, the pd used to speed up the electron is converted into KE.

hence QΔV=½ mv2
 
rock.freak667 said:
By conservation of energy, the pd used to speed up the electron is converted into KE.

hence QΔV=½ mv2

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Narv said:
You, Sir, are a wonderful human being, and will have the finest of riches, the most beautiful of women and the highest prestige when I accomplish world domination.

:smile::smile: I've never heard that one before!
 

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