Finding the Minimum Kinetic Energy of Electrons in an Electric Field

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the minimum kinetic energy of electrons in an electric field created by two metal plates, PQ and RS, separated by 15 mm, with PQ at +100V relative to RS. The problem involves understanding the energy transformations as electrons approach the plates at an angle of 60 degrees.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between kinetic energy and potential energy, questioning whether potential energy should be included in the calculations. Some suggest using energy conservation principles, while others propose using equations of motion.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing different approaches to the problem, with some expressing confusion over specific formulas and their derivations. There is a mix of suggestions regarding the use of energy conservation and motion equations, indicating a collaborative effort to clarify the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

Some participants question the origin of certain potential energy terms and the assumptions made regarding the components of velocity. There is an acknowledgment of the need for careful consideration of the problem setup and the variables involved.

nks27
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Homework Statement



Two metal plates, PQ AND RS are separated by a distance of 15 mm.
PQ maintained at potential of +100V relative to RS.
Beam of electrons of different kinetic energies directed a slit ,on plate PQ, at angle of 60 degrees to plate.
To find the K.E of electrons that 'just' reach the plate RS.


Homework Equations



work done by electric field = K.E of electrons

k.E = qV


The Attempt at a Solution



i can't figure how to work this out
Should potential energy also be considered?
Is my attempt at the question wrong?
 
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Hi nks27! Welcome to PF :smile:

nks27 said:

Homework Statement



Two metal plates, PQ AND RS are separated by a distance of 15 mm.
PQ maintained at potential of +100V relative to RS.
Beam of electrons of different kinetic energies directed a slit ,on plate PQ, at angle of 60 degrees to plate.
To find the K.E of electrons that 'just' reach the plate RS.


Homework Equations



work done by electric field = K.E of electrons

k.E = qV


The Attempt at a Solution



i can't figure how to work this out
Should potential energy also be considered?
Is my attempt at the question wrong?

I believe you want to use the energy conservation principle. So yes, you do need to include potential energy...
 
i the use this formula

work done
against electric = K.E + P.E
field
K.E = work done - P.E

= qV - q/(4πεₒr)

but i don't get the answer.
Cud u please correct my careless mistake if there's any?
 
nks27 said:
i the use this formula

work done
against electric = K.E + P.E
field

From where did you get potential energy?
Instead using the energy conservation, you can use the equations of motion too. :wink:
 
nks27 said:
i the use this formula

work done
against electric = K.E + P.E
field
K.E = work done - P.E

= qV - q/(4πεₒr)

but i don't get the answer.
Cud u please correct my careless mistake if there's any?

Umm no. How did you get q/(4πεₒr)??


The kinetic energy change will result in potential energy. Now, for the minimum kinetic energy you need the final velocity to have no x component(assuming vertical plates). So you have,

[tex]\frac{1}{2}m(v_x)^2 +\frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2 = qV + \frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2[/tex]
 
Pranav-Arora said:
From where did you get potential energy?
Instead using the energy conservation, you can use the equations of motion too. :wink:

I would prefer conservation of energy, but this method works too :smile:
 
Infinitum said:
Umm no. How did you get q/(4πεₒr)??


The kinetic energy change will result in potential energy. Now, for the minimum kinetic energy you need the final velocity to have no x component(assuming vertical plates). So you have,

[tex]\frac{1}{2}m(v_x)^2 +\frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2 = qV + \frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2[/tex]


sorry for late post.
substituting v_x = vcos60
and v_y = vsin60

q= 1.6 X 10^-19 and V= 100 V


i get v^2 to be 1.41 X 10^14

using it to calculate the k.E doesn't give the right answer :(


the " q/(4πεₒr) " was for electric potential .
 

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