Scattering of two charged particles

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves the scattering of two identical charged particles, focusing on their interaction as one approaches the other. The context includes concepts from classical mechanics and electromagnetic interactions, particularly relating to scattering angles and reference frames.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the interpretation of the coordinates given in the problem, particularly the significance of the line defined by x=b, y=0. There is uncertainty about the necessity of a third dimension in the setup.

Discussion Status

The discussion is exploring the implications of the problem's setup, with participants questioning the dimensionality and the meaning of the impact parameter. Some guidance has been provided regarding the motion of the projectile particle, but no consensus has been reached on the interpretation of the initial conditions.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential confusion regarding the dimensionality of the problem and the relevance of the impact parameter in the context of scattering in a plane.

Dazed&Confused
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Homework Statement


Two identical charged particles, each of mass m and charge e, are intitialy far apart. One of the particles is at rest at the origin, and the other approaching it with velocity v along the line x=b, y=0 where b=e^2/2 \pi \epsilon_0 mv^2. Find the scattering angle in the CM frame, and the directions in which the two particles emerge in the Lab.

It then quotes a relevant section which was on Rutherford Scattering

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Calling x=b, y=0 a line threw me off. I'm not sure what they mean by that.
 
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Dazed&Confused said:
Calling x=b, y=0 a line threw me off. I'm not sure what they mean by that.
I'm not sure either. Maybe they mean that the particle is initially traveling in the x-z plane along a line that is parallel to the z axis at x = b.
 
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That does make sense, although why introduce a third dimension if the particles are in a plane? Anyway I'll try it with what you say.
 
Dazed&Confused said:
That does make sense, although why introduce a third dimension if the particles are in a plane?

Good point.

The important thing is that the projectile particle is initially moving along a straight line with impact parameter b. I think that's all you really need to know.
 

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