Deflection Angle in a Repulsive Coulomb Field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the deflection angle of a particle in a repulsive Coulomb field. Participants clarify that the force acting on the particle is described by the equation F = k * q1 * q2 / r², where k is Coulomb's constant. The potential energy associated with this force is expressed as U = k * q / r, indicating that it is indeed positive for repulsive interactions. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between force, potential energy, and the resulting motion of charged particles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Coulomb's Law and its applications
  • Understanding of electric potential energy
  • Basic principles of particle motion in electric fields
  • Familiarity with the concept of deflection angles in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Coulomb's Law and its implications for particle interactions
  • Learn about the equations of motion for charged particles in electric fields
  • Explore the concept of potential energy in electrostatics
  • Investigate the mathematical methods for calculating deflection angles in various force fields
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and researchers interested in electrostatics and particle dynamics will benefit from this discussion.

Pyroadept
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Homework Statement


Find the deflection angle of a particle moving in a repulsive Coulomb field.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Hi everyone,
I can do this no problem if I just knew the equation for a repulsive Coulomb field! Can anyone please help me with this?

Thanks
 
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Hi Pyroadept! :wink:

Isn't that just a force of 1/r2 radially outward? :smile:
 
tiny-tim said:
Hi Pyroadept! :wink:

Isn't that just a force of 1/r2 radially outward? :smile:

So, at the risk of sounding incredibally stupid, that would mean a potential energy of U = 1/r?
 
A potential of 1/r …

potential energy would be q/r (for a body with charge q). :smile:

(or is it minus that? :confused: … i get confused :redface:)
 

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