What is the Potential difference?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the potential difference experienced by a positron as it decelerates from 9.20 x 106 m/s to 2.20 x 106 m/s under the influence of an electric force. The relevant equation used is KE1 + U1 = KE2 + U2, leading to the formula for potential difference: Δv = (1/2m(vf2 - vi2))/q. The mass of the positron is 9.1E-31 kg and its charge is 1.6E-19 C. The calculated potential difference is 77 V, although there is confusion regarding the correct formulation of the numerator in the equation.

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  • Understanding of kinetic energy and potential energy concepts
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion in electric fields
  • Knowledge of particle physics, specifically properties of positrons
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and particle dynamics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to electric forces and potential differences.

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Homework Statement



As a positron moves through a region of space, its speed decreases from 9.20*10^6 m/s to 2.20*10^6 m/s. The electric force is the only force acting on the positron.

Homework Equations



KE1 + U1 = KE2 + U2
Where KE is kinetic energy and U is potential energy.

The Attempt at a Solution



Using the above equation I have:

Potential Difference = \\text{$\Delta $v} = \frac{1/2m\left(v_f^2-v_i^2\right)}{q}

Where m is the mass of the positron, 9.1E-31 kg, and q is the charge of the positron, 1.6E-19 C. The v's are the final and initial speeds. The potential difference comes out to be: 77 V when I solve it.
I am not getting the correct answer. Am I proceeding about this the right way?
 
Last edited:
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It should be vi^2 - vf^2 in the numerator... but other than that everything looks right. check your calculations... I'm getting a different number.
 

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