How Can a Linear Potential Be Created Experimentally for Electron Studies?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the experimental creation of a linear potential for studying electron behavior, particularly in the context of quantum mechanical tunneling. Participants explore theoretical frameworks and practical setups related to linear potentials in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about methods to create a linear potential experimentally, noting the relevance of diodes and the necessity of a vacuum for electron investigation.
  • Another participant clarifies that a linear potential can be represented as V(x) = ax + b, and mentions that the space between two parallel plates at different potentials creates such a linear potential.
  • A beginner participant expresses curiosity about the implications of the big bang theory on the conservation of momentum, although this point diverges from the main topic of linear potentials.
  • The original poster confirms the focus on a linear potential function and asks if it is feasible to emit an electron from one plate to another in a vacuum while considering the potential as V(x) = ax.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definition of a linear potential and its representation, but the discussion remains unresolved regarding the practical experimental setup and the implications of the potential on electron behavior.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about the vacuum conditions and the specific configurations of the experimental setup that have not been fully explored or defined.

PhilSh
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For my current assignment we are investigating an electron incident on a linear potential. For the most part i am happy with my answers, however i am having trouble answering one question - how would one create a linear potential experimentally?

I know linear potentials exist in diodes, but i believe a vacuum would be required to investigate the incoming electron for the present problem?
 
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Do you mean a V(x) that is linear in x, i.e. V(x) = ax + b where a and b are constants? The space between two parallel plates that are at different potentials has a linear potential function.
 
hi

jtbell said:
Do you mean a V(x) that is linear in x, i.e. V(x) = ax + b where a and b are constants? The space between two parallel plates that are at different potentials has a linear potential function.

From a person that is a beginner in physics but wishes to know.
according to the theory of big bang the universe was made by
a point of energy that exploted, but isn't this going against
the law of conservation of momentum which says that there
have to be a source of matter a nucleous that will absorb
both the energy and momentum?
 
Thanks for the reply jtbell, yes, i do mean "a V(x) that is linear in x, i.e. V(x) = ax + b where a and b are constants?"

In order to investigate quantum mechanical tunneling of this electron is it possible to have an electron emmitted from one plate to the other with the plates in a vacuum? You see, while the potential is linear between said plates, i am investigating an electron incident such that it sees the potential as V(x)=ax, not incident perpindicular to the potential.
 

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