Initial acceleration of a charged particle

In summary, the initial acceleration of sphere 2, if it were free to move, would be 11.48 m/s^2. This is calculated using the electrostatic force between the two spheres, which is 0.100 N, and the mass of sphere 2, which is 15.2 g. The calculation includes converting the distance between the spheres from cm to m.
  • #1
hudsonale10
5
0

Homework Statement


If sphere 2 were free to move its initial acceleration would be ___m/s^2


Homework Equations


Two small spheres carrying charges q1 = 7.68 µC and q2 = 5.74 µC are separated by 19.9 cm. The mass of sphere 1 is 10.5 g and the mass of sphere 2 is 15.2 g.


The Attempt at a Solution


Not sure how to start this one? I know the acceleration would be due to gravity but...
 
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  • #2
hudsonale10 said:
I know the acceleration would be due to gravity but...
I would not assume that.

What electrostatic force do the two spheres exert on each other?
 
  • #3
Calculate Electrostatic force(F) b/w the two spheres. Since only spher 2 is free to move. the acc is F/m(of sphere 2)
 
  • #4
About .100 N

(9.0 x 10^9)((7.68 x 10^-6)(5.74 x 10-6))/(19.9)^2
 
  • #5
(19.9* 10^-2)^2 as 19.9 is in cm
 
  • #6
ans is 11.48 m/s^2
 
  • #7
Wow thank you for catching that simple error, and thanks for all the help
 
  • #8
check whether the answer is correct and Your welcome:)
 

What is initial acceleration of a charged particle?

The initial acceleration of a charged particle refers to the rate at which the particle's velocity changes when it is first introduced into an electric or magnetic field. This acceleration is caused by the interaction between the particle's charge and the field.

What factors affect the initial acceleration of a charged particle?

The initial acceleration of a charged particle is affected by several factors, including the strength and direction of the electric or magnetic field, the charge of the particle, and the mass of the particle. Additionally, the initial velocity of the particle and any other forces acting on it can also impact its acceleration.

What is the difference between initial acceleration and constant acceleration?

The main difference between initial acceleration and constant acceleration is that initial acceleration refers to the acceleration of a particle at a specific moment in time, while constant acceleration refers to a constant rate of change in velocity over time. In other words, initial acceleration is the starting point of a particle's motion, while constant acceleration is sustained over a period of time.

How is initial acceleration calculated?

The initial acceleration of a charged particle can be calculated using the equation a = qE/m, where a is the acceleration, q is the charge of the particle, E is the strength of the electric or magnetic field, and m is the mass of the particle. This equation is known as the Lorentz force law.

What are some real-life applications of initial acceleration of charged particles?

The initial acceleration of charged particles has many real-life applications, including in particle accelerators used in scientific research, in medical treatments such as radiation therapy, and in technologies such as cathode ray tubes in televisions and computer monitors. It is also crucial in understanding the behavior of charged particles in space and in the Earth's atmosphere.

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