What are the equations for trajectory in an E-field?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the trajectory of an electron in an electric field, particularly focusing on the mathematical relationships involving trigonometric functions such as tangent, sine, and cosine. Participants are exploring how these functions relate to the motion of charged particles in an electric field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to connect the concept of trajectory in an electric field with the use of trigonometric functions. Questions arise regarding the relevance of the angle of entry and the components of velocity in determining the trajectory.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the relationship between the angle of entry and the initial velocity components, suggesting that sine and cosine functions will be necessary for calculations. However, there is still uncertainty about how these equations specifically apply to the trajectory in an electric field.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that they have not previously used trigonometric functions in classwork, which may contribute to the confusion regarding their application in this context. The original poster mentions an upcoming exam, indicating a time constraint that may affect the depth of discussion.

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Homework Statement



Hello, I have a physics exam on friday. My teacher said one of the questions would be on the TRAJECTORY (of an electron) IN AN E-FIELD. he told us to remember than tanß = sinß / cosß

we haven't used tan, sin or cos during class work. I was hoping someone could give me a clue to what he means.

Thanks
 
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he means that you will need to use tan(beta)
 
yes i know he will give us some form of equation or something to do with tanß
but how is this related to the trajectory in an e field?
 
say a uniform electric field points in the x direction. but the electron enters the E field at a certain speed 30 degrees above the direction of the E field, then you are going to have initial components of velocities that involve sine and cosine
 
So would the equations be:

v = ucosß + at
v^2 = (ucosß)^2 + 2as
s = (ucosß x t ) + .5at^2
?
 

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