Potential difference of falling charge particle

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the potential difference (Vb - Va) for a charged particle moving in the Earth's gravitational field. A particle with a mass of 7 x 10-5 kg and a charge of 1 x 10-6 C travels 3 m, experiencing a decrease in kinetic energy of 5.3 mJ. The gravitational acceleration is 9.8 m/s2. The participant correctly identifies that the electric field opposes the gravitational field, suggesting that the work done by the electric field can be equated to the change in kinetic and potential energy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational potential energy and electric potential energy
  • Knowledge of the conservation of energy principle
  • Familiarity with the concepts of electric fields and forces
  • Basic algebra and physics equations involving work and energy
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the electric field strength using the relationship between force and charge
  • Explore the conservation of energy in electric fields and gravitational fields
  • Learn how to derive potential difference from work done on a charged particle
  • Study the effects of electric fields on charged particles in motion
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, electrical engineers, and anyone studying the dynamics of charged particles in gravitational fields will benefit from this discussion.

phymateng
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Homework Statement


A particle of mass 7*10e-5 kg and charge 1e-6 C from point A to point B a distance of 3 m in the Earth's gravitational field. The kinetic energy of the particle decreases by 5.3mJ during this movement. The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s^2. What is the potential difference Vb-Va?


Homework Equations



I don't know how to get the Electric Field. I know that its a positive charge going in the same direction as the gravitational field. Since the problem says that the final kinetic energy is decreasing, then I know the velocity is decreasing and giving me a hint that there is an electric field counteracting the gravitational field. I could use the sum of all forces to equate both the fields, but that is only when the charge would stop. Do I have the right Idea?

The Attempt at a Solution



Tried to do the sum of all forces and the conservation of energy.
 
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W = q*ΔV

So you have Δ½mv² and Δmgh.

So if there was some work involved ... any ideas?
 

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