What is the speed at a great distance from the alpha particle

In summary, the problem involves calculating the speed of a proton at a great distance from an alpha particle, given the charge and distance between them. The equations for electric potential energy and electric field strength are used, but the missing information about the proton's initial and final potential energies and momentum make it difficult to solve for its speed.
  • #1
abm77
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Homework Statement



An alpha particle has a charge of 2e and is fixed at the origin. A proton is located 2.00x10^-8 m from the alpha particle along the x-axis. When the proton is released, what is its speed at a great distance from the alpha particle

q = 2e
r = 2.00x10^-8
v = ?

Homework Equations



ɛ = kq / r
ɛ = ΔV / r
ΔE = qΔV
E = kq1q2 / r

The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea how to start this one. As every way I can think of doing it results in missing information that is needed to solve for v. For example when I tried to solve for ɛ and then use it to solve for ΔV, and use that to solve for ΔE, I get stuck with EE = EK but no mass to solve for v.
 
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  • #2
Fixed formatting problem
 
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  • #3
What is the PE of the system initially? What is its final PE? Also consider momentum.
 

1. What is the speed of an alpha particle at a great distance?

The speed of an alpha particle at a great distance depends on several factors, including the initial speed of the particle and the forces acting on it. However, as an alpha particle travels further away from its source, its speed will decrease due to interactions with other particles and forces in its environment.

2. How is the speed of an alpha particle measured at a great distance?

The speed of an alpha particle at a great distance can be measured using various methods, such as tracking its trajectory and using equations to calculate its speed. It can also be indirectly measured by observing its interactions with other particles and estimating its speed based on those interactions.

3. Does the speed of an alpha particle change at different distances from its source?

Yes, the speed of an alpha particle can change at different distances from its source. As the particle travels further away, it will experience different forces and interactions that can affect its speed. Additionally, the speed of an alpha particle can also change if it collides or interacts with other particles in its path.

4. How does the speed of an alpha particle at a great distance compare to its initial speed?

The speed of an alpha particle at a great distance is typically much slower than its initial speed. This is because the particle will have encountered various interactions and forces that slow it down as it travels further away from its source. However, the exact difference in speed will depend on the specific conditions and environment of the particle's journey.

5. What factors can affect the speed of an alpha particle at a great distance?

Several factors can affect the speed of an alpha particle at a great distance, including the initial speed of the particle, the forces and interactions it encounters, and the medium through which it travels. Other factors such as the particle's mass and charge can also play a role in its speed at a great distance.

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