Finding the change in velocity through a potential difference

AI Thread Summary
To find the velocity of a charged particle through a potential difference, start by converting the potential difference (7 kV to 7000 V) and applying energy conservation principles. The kinetic energy gained by the particle is equal to the work done by the electric field, which can be expressed as qV. The radial acceleration equation a = v^2/r can then be used to relate velocity to the radius and acceleration. It's important to understand that the magnetic field equations provided do not directly incorporate potential difference. Reviewing the concept of electric potential energy will clarify how to integrate these principles effectively.
Patches1532
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Homework Statement
Question states: A singly charged ion of unknown mass moves in a circle of radius 12.5 cm in a magnetic field of 1.2 T. The ion was accelerated through a potential difference of 7 kV before it entered the magnetic field. What is the mass of the ion?
Relevant Equations
qB=mv/r
We're given the equation qB=mv/r which is simple enough. I just don't know how to find the velocity given the acceleration through a potential difference. I tried using the radial acceleration equation given to me but I end up with the square root of a negative...and that breaks math... I assume you're first supposed to convert to volts 7kV=7000V, but what equation do I use after that? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
 
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Use energy conservation assuming that the particle stated from rest. You may have to review the equation for a charged particle's potential energy in an electrostatic field. It's the equivalent of the gravitational ##mgh.##
 
I ended up putting a negative in the radial acceleration equation in my notes...I missed these classes and copied notes from a friend. In our book it has it as a=v^2/r which will allow me to solve for V. Thank you for the help.
 
Patches1532 said:
I ended up putting a negative in the radial acceleration equation in my notes...I missed these classes and copied notes from a friend. In our book it has it as a=v^2/r which will allow me to solve for V. Thank you for the help.
I thought you had difficulty finding the velocity of the particle when it enters the magnetic field. That is calculated using the 7000 V potential difference and is not related to ##v^2/r.##
 
Then maybe I'm misunderstanding the notes. So in the question, we're given B, r, and p.d. and we are asked to solve for mass (m). In our notes, the only equations it gives us are for radial acceleration, F of the magnetic field=qvBCos(theta), F=ma, and qB=mv/r. We're not told how to plug in p.d. into any equation.
 
Yes that rings a bell. I'll look at the link and try to figure it out. Thank you for your time.
 
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