Minimum seperation of two electrons moving toward each other

[physicks885]

Homework Statement

Two electrons approach each other moving in opposite directions. When the separation between the electrons is 10 m, the two electrons move with the same speed of 𝑣=38 m/s. What is the minimum distance that the electrons will approach each other before they begin to move away due to the effect of electrical repulsion?

Relevant Equations

K.E = U

[Mentor Note -- Two threads started by partners in a class have been merged into this one thread, since they are working on a shared solution to turn in]

 

[kareenlama]

 

[kuruman]

It looks like you have the correct idea. I strongly recommend that you redo the problem using symbols exclusively in order to find an algebraic expression for the minimum separation $r$. Once you have that, you can substitute numbers at the very end. This eliminates copying and round-off errors and preserves your sanity.

 

[jim mcnamara]

Locked pending moderation

 

[berkeman]

Thread is now re-opened after sorting out the confusing two-user issue.