Some confusion on electron volt

AI Thread Summary
An electron volt (eV) is defined as the kinetic energy gained by an electron moving through a potential difference of one volt. When an electron moves through a voltage of one million volts, it gains one mega-electron volt (MeV) of energy. The discussion clarifies that while the classical kinetic energy formula (1/2 mv^2) applies in non-relativistic contexts, relativistic scenarios require different equations. Regardless of the speed, an electron moving through one volt always carries an energy of one eV. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurately applying the correct energy formulas in various contexts.
dragonlorder
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Homework Statement


I learned that by definition, one electron volt is the kinetic energy an electron would have moving between 1 voltage difference. if an electron moves between voltage of 1 million volts,then K = 1MeV, for example, but the problem is K is expressed in 1/2mv^2 or the relativistic one (gamma-1)mc^2

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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In an electric field E the electron experiences a force F = e*E
Due to this force the electron moves a distance x, and the work done W = e*x*E.
This work produces kinetic energy in electron = 1/2*m*v^2
If the electric field is uniform Voltage = x*E
 
rl.bhat said:
In an electric field E the electron experiences a force F = e*E
Due to this force the electron moves a distance x, and the work done W = e*x*E.
This work produces kinetic energy in electron = 1/2*m*v^2
If the electric field is uniform Voltage = x*E

oh, so its defined in classical sense. I thought that since relativistic one was correct, so it might be the relativistic energy, but no. Thanks ~
 
No, for relativistic energies the relativistic formulas must be used.

1/2 m v^2 only works in non-relativistic situations.
 
Redbelly98 said:
No, for relativistic energies the relativistic formulas must be used.

1/2 m v^2 only works in non-relativistic situations.

yea, later I found out any electron moving through 1V, must carry 1eV energy by definition, doesn't depend on which formula I use. In high speed, relativistic, of course
 
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