Quantifying Energy in an Electron-Proton System

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the kinetic and potential energy of an electron-proton system, specifically at a distance of 5.29 x 10^-11 m. It addresses three main questions: the kinetic energy of the electron, the total potential energy of the system, and the energy required to separate the charges to infinity. A participant confirms that electric potential energy is the primary form of potential energy in this scenario, as gravitational forces are negligible and nuclear forces do not apply at the given distance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the dominant forces in such systems. Overall, the thread clarifies the energy dynamics in an electron-proton interaction.
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Homework Statement


An electron orbits a stationary proton at a distance of 5.29 x 10^-11 m.
(i) What is the kinetic energy of the electron?
(ii) What is the potential energy of the whole system?
(iii) What is the minimum amount of energy needed to separate the two charges to infinity?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Just a simple question:
(ii) In this system are there any other forms of potential energy other than the electric potential energy?
 
Last edited:
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I don't think so, since gravity is really weak compared to electric force, and the distance given is way out of range of the nuclear forces.
 
okay thanks. just wanted to be sure :smile:
 
Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Thread 'Variable mass system : water sprayed into a moving container'

Starting with the mass considerations #m(t)# is mass of water #M_{c}# mass of container and #M(t)# mass of total system $$M(t) = M_{C} + m(t)$$ $$\Rightarrow \frac{dM(t)}{dt} = \frac{dm(t)}{dt}$$ $$P_i = Mv + u \, dm$$ $$P_f = (M + dm)(v + dv)$$ $$\Delta P = M \, dv + (v - u) \, dm$$ $$F = \frac{dP}{dt} = M \frac{dv}{dt} + (v - u) \frac{dm}{dt}$$ $$F = u \frac{dm}{dt} = \rho A u^2$$ from conservation of momentum , the cannon recoils with the same force which it applies. $$\quad \frac{dm}{dt}...
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