What is the Charge of a Moving Particle in an Electric Field?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a moving particle in an electric field, where its kinetic energy changes as it moves between two positions with different electric potentials. The task is to determine the charge of the particle based on the given energy and potential values.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between kinetic energy change and electric potential difference, with one participant expressing uncertainty about their calculations and the validity of their formulas.

Discussion Status

Some guidance has been offered regarding the small magnitude of the charge, referencing the charge of an electron. One participant has indicated they resolved their issue, suggesting progress in understanding.

Contextual Notes

The problem involves specific energy values in electronvolts (eV) and requires consideration of the algebraic sign of the charge. There is a mention of a practice version that may have contributed to confusion regarding expected results.

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Homework Statement


A moving particle encounters an external electric field that decreases its kinetic energy from 8560 eV to 6770 eV as the particle moves from position A to position B. The electric potential at A is -50.5 V, and the electric potential at B is +25.9 V. Determine the charge of the particle. Include the algebraic sign (+ or −) with your answer.


Homework Equations


V=EPE/q, EPE=qEx=KE


The Attempt at a Solution


ΔKE/ΔV=q
 
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Rae_4 said:

Homework Statement


A moving particle encounters an external electric field that decreases its kinetic energy from 8560 eV to 6770 eV as the particle moves from position A to position B. The electric potential at A is -50.5 V, and the electric potential at B is +25.9 V. Determine the charge of the particle. Include the algebraic sign (+ or −) with your answer.


Homework Equations


V=EPE/q, EPE=qEx=KE


The Attempt at a Solution


ΔKE/ΔV=q

Hi Rae_4, Welcome to Physics Forums.

Did you have a particular question about the problem? You seem to be on the right track with your attempt.
 
Yeah. I'm trying that formula, but it keeps telling me my answer is incorrect. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong. When I attempt the practice version it is trying to tell me the answer is times 10^-18 and nothing I have in that formula would give me a number that small. Are my formulas incorrect?
 
Rae_4 said:
nothing I have in that formula would give me a number that small. Are my formulas incorrect?
The energy is given in eV. The charge of an electron is 1.6021765 × 10 −19 coulomb. That's pretty small.
 
Figured it out. Thanks!
 

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