Work performed on a proton between two charged plates

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the work done on a proton as it moves between two charged plates separated by a distance of 0.05 m, with a potential difference of 20 V. Participants are exploring concepts related to electric fields and forces acting on charged particles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between electric potential, work, and the charge of the proton. There is a question about whether the work done is negative due to the direction of the force relative to the movement of the proton. Some participants suggest using the charge of the proton to calculate the force before determining the work done.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the calculations involved and questioning the assumptions regarding the direction of force and work. There is no explicit consensus, but several lines of reasoning are being explored regarding the application of formulas and the interpretation of angles in the context of work done.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of the proton's charge and the geometry of the problem, including the angle of force application. There is an acknowledgment of potential confusion regarding the concepts of work and electric fields.

KidDreamer
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Homework Statement


A set of parallel conducting plates are separated by .05 m. When the plates are fully charged to a potential difference of 20 V, how much work would have to be performed to move a proton from the negatively charged plate to the positively charged plate?

My second question would be, is it negative work because its moving a positive charge towards the positive plate?


Homework Equations


V = k*q/r
We = qV
V = Ed



The Attempt at a Solution


20 * ? I am sorry i just don't understand this concept that well
 
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Work = F*d*cosθ.
Here force on the proton is E*q away from the positive plate.
Proton is moving towards the +ve plate. So θ = 180 degrees.
With these information find W.
 
Wait...so I understand it being 180 degrees...but i do i need to use the protons charge as 1.6*10^-16 to find the force applied first?
 
KidDreamer said:
Wait...so I understand it being 180 degrees...but i do i need to use the protons charge as 1.6*10^-16 to find the force applied first?
Yes.
The final formula will be
W = V*q*cosθ.
 

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