How much work does an electric field do in moving a proton

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work done by an electric field in moving a proton from a potential of +95 V to -37 V. The relevant equation used is deltaPE = q * Vba, where q is the charge of the proton (1.6e-19 C). The calculated potential energy change is 2.2e-17 J, which converts to approximately 0.007 eV. Participants emphasize the importance of unit conversion and accuracy in calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric potential and potential energy
  • Familiarity with the charge of a proton (1.6e-19 C)
  • Knowledge of unit conversions between joules and electron volts
  • Basic grasp of electric fields and their effects on charged particles
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the concept of electric potential and its relation to work done by electric fields
  • Learn about the conversion between joules and electron volts in detail
  • Explore examples of potential energy calculations in electric fields
  • Investigate the implications of electric field strength on particle movement
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching electromagnetism, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of electric fields and potential energy calculations.

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Homework Statement



How much work does the electric field do in moving a proton from a point with a potential of +95 V to a point where it is -37 V? Express your answer both in joules and electron volts.
_____eV
_____J

Homework Equations



deltaPE = q * Vba

The Attempt at a Solution



PE = (-1.6e-19)(138)
PE = 2.2e-17 J

1.6e-19 / 12.2e-17 = .007 eV
 
Physics news on Phys.org
you may want to recheck your calculation for Vba.
 
You might also think about why you use eV for the units and what step this migth save you!
 

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