An alpha particle is fired at a uranium atom

In summary, the conversation discusses the question of how close an alpha particle will get to the nucleus of an uranium atom when fired at a velocity of 5 x 10^5 m/s. The equations used to solve this problem are Ek = (mv^2)/2 and Ee = (kq1q2)/d, with the correct answer being 5.1 x 10^-11 m. However, there was a mistake in using the value for the charge of the alpha particle, resulting in an incorrect answer of 1.02 x 10^-10 m.
  • #1
newageanubis
15
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Homework Statement


"If an alpha particle is fired straight at the nucleus of an uranium atom (q = 92e), at a velocity of 5 x 10^5 m/s, how close will it get to the uranium nucleus?

Homework Equations


Ek = (mv^2)/2
Ee = (kq1q2)/d

The Attempt at a Solution


Since the alpha particle and uranium atom are both positively charged, they will naturally repel each other. Firing the alpha particle at the uranium atom will therefore store electrical energy. At the closest point the alpha particle gets to the nucleus, all of its kinetic energy has been converted into electrical potential energy. Therefore, I equated Ee and Ek, and solved for d, taking the mass of an alpha particle to be quadruple that of a proton. However, the answer I got was 1.02 x 10^-10 m, but the correct answer is 5.1 x 10^-11 as per the provided solution.
 
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  • #2
5.5 x 10^-11 is correct, do the math again.
 
  • #3
Make sure you use the correct values for the charge and mass of the alpha particle.
 
  • #4
I accidentally used q = 4e for the alpha particle (since m = 4 x mass of proton)... ^.^'''

Thanks, guys!
 
  • #5


I would first check my calculations and make sure I didn't make any errors. I would also consider the fact that the uranium atom is not a point charge and has a finite size, which could affect the distance at which the alpha particle gets closest to the nucleus. Additionally, I would take into account any other factors that could affect the motion of the alpha particle, such as the presence of other particles or external forces. I would also consider the limitations of the equations I used and whether there are more accurate or appropriate equations that could be used in this scenario. Overall, I would continue to analyze and refine my solution to better understand the behavior of the alpha particle and uranium atom in this situation.
 

FAQ: An alpha particle is fired at a uranium atom

1. What is an alpha particle?

An alpha particle is a type of radiation that consists of two protons and two neutrons bound together. It is the most massive and highly charged type of radiation.

2. How is an alpha particle fired?

An alpha particle can be fired using a process called alpha decay, where a radioactive atom emits an alpha particle as it decays into a more stable atom.

3. What happens when an alpha particle is fired at a uranium atom?

When an alpha particle is fired at a uranium atom, it can cause the uranium atom to undergo nuclear fission, splitting into smaller atoms and releasing a large amount of energy.

4. Why is uranium commonly used in nuclear reactors?

Uranium is commonly used in nuclear reactors because it is a highly unstable and radioactive element, making it an ideal fuel source for nuclear reactions.

5. What are the potential risks associated with firing an alpha particle at a uranium atom?

The potential risks associated with firing an alpha particle at a uranium atom include the release of harmful radiation and the potential for a nuclear meltdown if the process is not properly controlled. This is why nuclear reactions must be carefully monitored and regulated.

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