The Kinetic Energy of an Electron & Proton

Thread starter soul5
Start date Mar 8, 2008
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Electron Energy Kinetic Kinetic energy Proton

AI Thread Summary

As an electron and proton move closer due to their mutual attraction, their kinetic energies change as they approach each other. The conservation of energy principle indicates that the total energy remains constant, but the distribution between potential and kinetic energy shifts. The electron, being much lighter than the proton, will have greater kinetic energy when they meet. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding conservation laws in physics. Ultimately, the kinetic energy of the electron will be greater than that of the proton when they collide.

Mar 8, 2008

soul5

Homework Statement

A electron and proton are far way from each other. They move closer to each other due to their mutual attaction. When they meet is the kinetic energy of the eletron greater, less or even of that of the proton?

It think it's even, but I'm not sure.

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Mar 8, 2008

Doc Al

Mentor

What remains the same as they approach? Hint: What's conserved?

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