What is the Energy Required to Move an Electron Between Two Charged Spheres?

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SUMMARY

The energy required to move an electron from the outer charged sphere to the inner charged sphere is calculated using the formula W = kQ(-e)(1/R1 - 1/R2). With Q set at 500 nC, R1 at 0.5 cm, and R2 at 5.5 cm, the computed work done is W = 130.9 Joules. This calculation confirms that the approach taken in the discussion is correct and effectively demonstrates the application of electrostatic principles in determining energy expenditure in a charged system.

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  • Understanding of electrostatics and Coulomb's law
  • Familiarity with the concept of electric potential energy
  • Knowledge of the constants involved, specifically the Coulomb's constant (k)
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
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  • Explore the implications of charge distribution on energy calculations
  • Learn about the effects of varying charge magnitudes and distances on energy requirements
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Homework Statement


two thin conducting spheres, one inside the other. They are both centered about the same point. The outer sphere has a total charge Q and radius R2 and the inner sphere has a total charge -Q and radius R1.

The magnitude of the charges is Q = 500 nC, and the radii are R1 = 0.5 cm and R2 = 5.5 cm.

How much energy would you need to expend to move one electron from the outer sphere to the inner sphere?


Homework Equations


W=kQ(-e)(1/R1- 1/R2)

The Attempt at a Solution


W=kQ(-e)(1/R1- 1/R2)= 130.9
 
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Your approach is correct.
 

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