What is the velocity of a proton with an energy of 0.12 keV?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the velocity of a proton with an energy of 0.12 keV, specifically focusing on the conversion of energy units and the application of kinetic energy formulas in the context of A-Level physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to convert energy from keV to Joules and apply the kinetic energy formula to find velocity. Some participants question the method of conversion and suggest using dimensional analysis for clarity. There are inquiries about the definition of an electronVolt and its implications in the calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, providing insights into energy conversion and discussing potential errors in the original calculations. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the correct approach to unit conversion and the application of formulas, with no explicit consensus reached yet.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of confusion regarding the conversion process from eV to Joules, as well as differing advice on whether to multiply or divide by the charge of an electron. The problem is framed within the context of A-Level physics, indicating a level of expected complexity.

James...
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Homework Statement



Calculate the veolcity of a proton of energy 0.12 keV

proton mass = 1.7 x 10^-27

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I thought...

0.12 keV = 120 eV

120/1.60 x 10^-19 = 7.5 x 10^20 J

E = 0.5mv^2

sqrt(2E/m) = v

but I'm getting something to x 10^23 so its obviously wrong.

its A-Level physics so shouldn't be a really complex answer...

Going wrong somewhere but can't work it out. Probably where I divided by the charge of an electron?

Any help appreciated.

James
 
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What exactly is an electronVolt?
 
You divided instead of multiplying. Try using dimensional analysis to convert from eV to Joules. It takes a lot of guess work out of the problem.
 
willem2 said:
What exactly is an electronVolt?

By definition, it is equal to the amount of kinetic energy gained by a single unbound electron when it accelerates through an electrostatic potential difference of one volt. (from Wiki)

efekwulsemmay said:
You divided instead of multiplying. Try using dimensional analysis to convert from eV to Joules. It takes a lot of guess work out of the problem.

Oh, my tutor told me to divide...

Is it because 1 Volt = 1 Joule/1 Coulomb

There for Joules = V * C ?

So eV multiplied but the charge of an electron give the Energy of the proton?

Also, I've not heard of Dinentional Analysis before, what exactly is it?

Thanks a lot

james
 
So would the correct answer be...

120 * 1.6 x 10-19

= 1.92 x 10 -17

sqrt(2*1.92 x 10 -17/1.7 x 10-27) = v = 1.5 x 105 ms-1
 

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