Finding speed of two electrons initially at rest

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Homework Statement


Two electrons start at rest with a separation of 5.0 x 10^-12 m. Once released, the electrons accelerate away from each other. Calculate the speed of each electron when they are a very large distance apart (Ee = 0).

Homework Equations


EE = kQq/r
Ek = (1/2)mv2

The Attempt at a Solution


EE2 - EE1 = - (Ek2 - Ek1)
- EE1 = - Ek2

(kq2) / r = (1/2)mv2
v = sqrt[ 2(8.99 x 109)(-1.6 x 10-19)2 / (9.11 x 10-31)(5.0 x 10-12) ]
v ≅ 1.0 x 107 m/s

The answer is apparently 7.1 x 106 m/s
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Hello, and welcome to PF!

Do both electrons end up with some kinetic energy? Did you take that into account?
 
TSny said:
Hello, and welcome to PF!Do both electrons end up with some kinetic energy? Did you take that into account?
Thanks for replying!
Oh I don't think I did. So it would be Ee1 = (1/2)mv^2 + (1/2)mv^2.
 
Yes. Are you assuming that the two electrons end up with the same speed? Can you justify that?
 
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