Trajectory of a Charge in an Electric Field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field magnitude (E) required for a charged particle to hit a specific target (y_h) on a screen located at x=L. The charge, with mass m and charge q, is emitted from the origin with an initial velocity v0 in the positive x direction. The equations derived include x(t)=v0*t and y(t)=(1/2)*(q*E/m)*t^2, with the final time calculated as t_final=L/v0. The acceleration is derived from the force equation F=ma, specifically F=qE/m.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematics, specifically the equations of motion.
  • Familiarity with Newton's Laws of Motion, particularly F=ma.
  • Basic knowledge of electric fields and forces on charged particles.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations to solve for unknowns.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the equation y_h using kinematic principles.
  • Learn about the relationship between electric fields and forces on charges.
  • Explore the implications of varying the charge (q) and mass (m) on the trajectory.
  • Investigate the effects of different initial velocities (v0) on the charge's path.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and kinematics, as well as anyone involved in solving problems related to charged particles in electric fields.

TheLegace
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Homework Statement


An charge with mass m and charge q is emitted from the origin, (x=0,y=0). A large, flat screen is located at x=L. There is a target on the screen at y position yh, where yh>0. In this problem, you will examine two different ways that the charge might hit the target. Ignore gravity in this problem.

Assume that the charge is emitted with velocity v0 in the positive x direction. Between the origin and the screen, the charge travels through a constant electric field pointing in the positive y direction. What should the magnitude E of the electric field be if the charge is to hit the target on the screen?


Homework Equations


The equations and questions is from this thread: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=59814

I just don't have much of an idea of where the y_h equation is coming from. Is from the forces or kinematics. I figured this equation is coming from original y = 1/2at^2, so I am assuming it is coming from a Newtons Law equation. F=ma=Fq. If not could someone please help, as soon I get to the y_h formula I think I can figure out the rest.


The Attempt at a Solution


x(t)=v0*t
y(t)=(1/2)*(q*E/m)*t^2
tfinal= L/v0

Thank You.
 
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TheLegace said:
I just don't have much of an idea of where the y_h equation is coming from. Is from the forces or kinematics. I figured this equation is coming from original y = 1/2at^2, so I am assuming it is coming from a Newtons Law equation. F=ma=Fq. If not could someone please help, as soon I get to the y_h formula I think I can figure out the rest.


The Attempt at a Solution


x(t)=v0*t
y(t)=(1/2)*(q*E/m)*t^2
tfinal= L/v0

Thank You.

You basically have it.

a comes from the q*E/m and you are using the acceleration, time distance relationship.

Plugging in L/Vo for t gives you the elevation y=h on the screen.
 

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