Proton release inside a parallel capacitor Find velocity

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the speed of a proton released from rest in a parallel-plate capacitor with a specified electric field strength and plate spacing. The context is within the subject area of electrostatics and motion of charged particles in electric fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the potential energy change of the proton and its relation to the electric field. There is an attempt to apply the equation for final velocity, but confusion arises regarding the derivation and application of the potential energy change formula.

Discussion Status

Some participants are questioning the reasoning behind the factor of 0.5 in the potential energy equation. Others express uncertainty about the application of the equations and how they relate to the specific problem context, indicating a lack of consensus on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of using a physics textbook for reference, which introduces additional complexity to the discussion. Participants are navigating through the definitions and setups related to potential energy in electric fields, which may not be fully aligned with the problem at hand.

conov3
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Homework Statement



The electric field strength is 47100 N/C inside a parallel-plate capacitor with 8.60 mm spacing. A proton is released from rest at the positive plate. What is the speed of the proton (in m/s) when it reaches the negative plate?

Homework Equations


Vf=√(-2U/m) I think?
ΔU=-.5eEd

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried using that equation to find ΔU=-3.768*10^-15
then plugged it in seem to have the wrong final answer though
 
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welcome to pf!

hi conov3! welcome to pf! :wink:
conov3 said:
ΔU=-.5eEd

why .5 ?
 
Thank you! I figured since I am in a college level physics, I might as well try to get some help if I need it! ha

Using my Physics book.. it says ΔU=Uf-Ui= (Uo+ (-e)Ed)-(Uo+(-e)E(d/2)
Then under that it says =-1/2eEd

I am confused about it also and am really unsure.
 
conov3 said:
Using my Physics book.. it says ΔU=Uf-Ui= (Uo+ (-e)Ed)-(Uo+(-e)E(d/2)

i don't understand that … it doesn't seem to fit the question :confused:
 

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