Proton Distance Help: Find After .5s

  • Thread starter Thread starter matt72lsu
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Proton
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the distance traveled by a proton in a uniform electric field of 2.5e-8 N/C after 0.5 seconds. The correct approach involves using the formula for acceleration derived from the electric force, Fe = qE, rather than gravitational acceleration. The accurate calculation yields a distance of 0.3 meters, contrasting with the incorrect calculation of 1.2 meters using gravitational acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and forces, specifically Fe = qE
  • Basic kinematics equations for uniformly accelerated motion
  • Knowledge of proton properties, including charge and mass
  • Familiarity with the concept of acceleration in electric fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between electric force and acceleration using Fe = qE
  • Learn about kinematic equations for objects under constant acceleration
  • Explore the effects of different magnitudes of electric fields on charged particles
  • Review the principles of motion in electric fields versus gravitational fields
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and kinematics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to electric forces and motion.

matt72lsu
Messages
94
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A proton is released from rest at t=o in a uniform electric field whose magnitude is 2.5e-8 N/C. How far has the proton traveled after .5 s?


Homework Equations



x = volt + 1/2at^2

The Attempt at a Solution


x = 1/2(9.81)(.5)^2 = 1.2 but it says the answer is .3m. I'm prety sure I'm using the correct equation so I don't know what is wrong.
 
Physics news on Phys.org


matt72lsu said:

Homework Statement


A proton is released from rest at t=o in a uniform electric field whose magnitude is 2.5e-8 N/C. How far has the proton traveled after .5 s?


Homework Equations



x = volt + 1/2at^2

The Attempt at a Solution


x = 1/2(9.81)(.5)^2 = 1.2 but it says the answer is .3m. I'm prety sure I'm using the correct equation so I don't know what is wrong.

Fe = q*E = ma Solve for acceleration, a, first. Then do your kinematics. The proton is accelerating in an electric field, I am assuming you don't have to worry about g... Have you not been studying E fields in your class? Remember what you are studying in class and then apply to the "old" ways.
 


thanks!
 


matt72lsu said:
thanks!

happy day
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
7K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
14K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
8K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
6K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
7K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
9K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
10K