Linear accelerator physics problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem related to a linear accelerator, specifically focusing on the acceleration of protons through a potential difference and the subsequent behavior of the proton beam in a magnetic field. Participants are attempting to determine the potential difference required for acceleration and the magnetic field strength needed for a semicircular path.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between potential difference and kinetic energy, with one suggesting a formula involving mass, charge, and velocity. Another participant raises concerns about the lack of given charge and seeks clarification on the mass of the proton.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights and formulas related to the problem. There is an exchange of information regarding the charge of the proton and its mass, indicating a collaborative effort to clarify concepts and calculations. However, no consensus has been reached on the final answers for parts A and C.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the absence of specific values for charge and seek confirmation on the mass of the proton, which may impact their calculations. The problem context includes imposed homework constraints that limit the information available to them.

carnom
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Ive been working on this problem for a few hours and can't get the last few parts.

In a linear accelerator, protons are accelerated from rest through a potential difference to a speed of approximately 3.1 X 10^6 meters per second. The resulting proton beam produces a current of 2 X 10^-6 ampere.

I found part B and D (with respect to the answer of part A), but i can't get part A, which is: Determine the potential difference through which the protons were accelerated.

I also can't get part C, which is: The proton beam enters a region of uniform magnetic field B that causes the beam to follow a cemicircular path. Determine the magnitude of the field that is required to cause an arc of radius .1 meter.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks!
 
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For part C:

centripical force = (mv^2)/r
this equals force on a current carrying conductor in a magnetic field = BIl

BIl = mv^2/r

for an arc l = r .theta where theta is the angle in radians. For a semi circle theta = pi radians

so the magnetic flux density of that field should equal

B = \frac {m v^2}{ I r^2 \pi}
 
oh yeah for A

from the definition of potential difference
W=QV
for an electron/proton qV = 1/2mv^2
so V = 1/2mv^2/q
 
Thanks, but for A you put a q in the formula, but the charge is not given and i have no idea how to find it. A bit more help would be appreciated. Thanks again. Also, m= 1.67 X 10^-27, right?
 
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I don't know the mass of the proton without looking it up, but that sounds about right. Did you get the correct answer for part C?

The charge on the proton is the same as that on the electron, 1.6 * 10^-19 C
 
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