Deflection Angle in a Repulsive Coulomb Field

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the deflection angle of a particle in a repulsive Coulomb field, a topic within electrostatics and classical mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring the nature of the force in a repulsive Coulomb field, questioning the relationship between force and potential energy. There is uncertainty regarding the correct expression for potential energy associated with the field.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing insights and questioning each other's assumptions about the equations involved. There is no explicit consensus yet, but some guidance on the nature of the force and potential energy has been offered.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion regarding the signs and forms of the equations related to potential energy in the context of a repulsive force.

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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