Work Done on A Proton in an Electric Field

Thread starter physicslady123
Start date Mar 28, 2021
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Electric Electric field Field Proton Work Work done

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SUMMARY

The work done on a proton in an electric field is calculated using the formula W = -qEd, where q is the charge of the proton (1.6 x 10^-19 C), E is the electric field strength (23 N/C), and d is the displacement (0.75 m). The calculation yields W = -2.76 x 10^-18 J. The positive value of work done indicates that the work is being done by the electric field on the proton, as it moves in the direction of the field, thus resulting in positive work despite the negative sign in the formula.

PREREQUISITES

Understanding of electric fields and forces
Familiarity with the concept of work in physics
Knowledge of charge units, specifically coulombs
Basic algebra for manipulating equations

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Study the concept of electric potential energy in electric fields
Learn about the relationship between work and energy in physics
Explore the implications of positive and negative work in different contexts
Investigate the behavior of charged particles in varying electric field strengths

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Students of physics, educators teaching electromagnetism, and anyone interested in the principles of work and energy in electric fields.

Mar 28, 2021

physicslady123

Homework Statement: Calculate the work done in moving a proton 0.75 m in the same direction as the electric field
with a strength of 23 N/C

Relevant Equations: W=-qEd

W=-qEd
=-(1.6*10^-19)(23)(0.75)
= -2.76*10^-18 J

However, the answer is 2.76*10^-18 J. Why is the word done positive and not negative? Since it's traveling in the same direction as the electric field, shouldn't it be negative work?