Relativistic Proton Acceleration: Calculate Potential Difference in Volts

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To calculate the potential difference required to accelerate a proton to a speed of 4/5 c, the equation q dV = mc^2 (gamma - 1) is used, where q is the charge of the proton. It's important to note that the charge should not be expressed in volts, as it is measured in coulombs. The discussion emphasizes the need for careful unit management in calculations. The correct approach involves understanding relativistic kinetic energy and ensuring units are consistent. Accurate calculations will yield the potential difference in volts, as required.
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Through waht potential difference must a proton be accelerated in order to reach a speed of 4/5 c?? Answer in volts.

Since (in relativisitic terms) K = mc^2 (gamma -1)

then q dV = mc^2 (gamma -1 )

where dV is the potential difference

and q is the charge of the proton = 1.6 e -19 V

Am i right?? please do tell!
 
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Good start! Just be careful with your units for charge - it is not measured in volts.
 
Tide said:
Good start! Just be careful with your units for charge - it is not measured in volts.

the answer is required in volts, however
 
stunner5000pt said:
the answer is required in volts, however

Yes, but you wrote the charge in units of Volts.
 
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