(Help) Surface charge density (σ) for particle to hit plate...

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the surface charge density (σ) required for a particle to hit a plate, involving concepts from kinematics and electrostatics.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate the particle's motion to the electric field generated by a charged surface, expressing acceleration in terms of σ. Some participants suggest alternative methods for finding acceleration, including the use of kinematics and the SUVAT equations.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different approaches to the problem, with some providing guidance on using kinematic equations. There is an ongoing examination of the original poster's method and the need for clarity in units.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of time constraints and the need for specific expressions related to projectile motion, indicating that the problem may involve assumptions about the projectile's trajectory and return to the same level.

chrisbroward
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Homework Statement
Find surface charge density required for t = 11.4 ms (11.4 * 10^-3 s)

Answer in μC/m^2
Relevant Equations
q = -3.84 mC (-3.84 * 10^-3 C)
m = 3.38 g
ⱴ = 6.81 km/s (6810 m/s)
θ = 69.1°
all at t = 0.
SCR-20240131-mzrk.png


I don't know if i'm exactly right.

But I started with x(time) = V cos θ t
which = (6810 m/s) cos (69.1°) (11.4 * 10^-3 s)
is ... 27.69 m

& since Electric field due to uniformly charge surface is represented by...
E = (q * σ)/(2 * ε_0 * m), and since acceleration (a) can be expressed as F/m, and Force (F) can be express as q*E;
I can combine these two equations...

a must be = (-3.84 * 10^-3 * σ)/(2 * (8.85 * 10^-12) * (3.38 * 10^-3)),
which is -6.418 * 10^10 * σ = a.

But as you can see now I have two unknowns and can't solve :(

Can anyone outline what exactly i'm doing incorrectly?
 
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You would want to find acceleration another way. Since you know t/2 and can find the velocity in the y-direction, you can use kinematics to find the acceleration.
 
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Apart from the above: Please use units.
 
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Are you used to using the SUVAT equations in ballistics questions?
 
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Or knowing ##v_x## and the time of flight you can find the range. What is an expression for the range for a projectile that returns to the same level from which it was launched?
 
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