Finding Force of an electron in motion

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the force exerted on an electron with a mass of 9.11x10-31 kg, which accelerates from an initial speed of 3.24x105 m/s to a final speed of 6.93x105 m/s over a distance of 5.15 cm. Using the formula F = ma, where 'm' is the mass and 'a' is the acceleration derived from the change in velocity, participants are guided to determine the force acting on the electron. Additionally, the comparison of this force with the weight of the electron is emphasized, highlighting the negligible weight in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Basic knowledge of kinematics, specifically acceleration
  • Familiarity with the concept of force and mass
  • Ability to perform unit conversions (e.g., cm to meters)
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate acceleration using the formula a = (vf - vi) / t
  • Learn how to apply F = ma to different scenarios in physics
  • Explore the concept of weight and its calculation using W = mg
  • Investigate the implications of relativistic effects on electron motion at high speeds
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in the dynamics of subatomic particles.

mrye33
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Please help, I keep getting the wrong answer but do not know why. Thanks An electron of mass 9.11x10^(-31) kg has an initial speed of 3.24x10^5 m/s. It travels in a straight line, and its speed increases to 6.93x10^5 m/s in a distance of 5.15 cm. Assume its acceleration is constant.

a. determine the force exerted on the electron.

b. compare this force with the weight of the electron, which we neglected.
 
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Hi mrye33!

Could you show us what you've already done.
 

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