Determing the kinetic energy of an electron

In summary, the problem involves a question about an electron's kinetic energy and potential energy in an electric field. The solution involves calculating the final kinetic energy using the initial kinetic energy and potential energy, and choosing option c as the correct answer. However, the conversation reveals that the correct answer is actually no option, as the electron would be repelled by the negative plate and its kinetic energy would decrease when moving from point B to A. It is also suggested to work with eV directly and that only one problem should be posted per topic.
  • #1
Turion
145
2

Homework Statement



sxvTCH3.png


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



KEi + PEi = KEf
2.4 x 10-19 + e(1) = KEf
KEf = 4.002 x 10-19 J

So option c would be correct, right? Thank you in advance.
 
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  • #2
b5LwGCD.png


This one is a trick question, right? It would need 0 kinetic energy because the electric field itself would move the electron to the left until it reaches point C.
 
  • #3
This one doesn't even make sense to me. How can the electron go back to plate D if plate D has the higher voltage?

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  • #4
Turion said:

Homework Statement



sxvTCH3.png


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



KEi + PEi = KEf
2.4 x 10-19 + e(1) = KEf
KEf = 4.002 x 10-19 J

So option c would be correct, right? Thank you in advance.

No. The electron is repelled by the negative plate so its KE decreases when it moves from B to A.
And it's easier if you work in eV directly.
The potential difference between B and A is 1 V so the change in potential energy is 1eV.

And I think you are supposed to post one problem per topic.
 
  • #5


Yes, option c would be correct. The equation you used is the correct equation for determining the kinetic energy of an electron, and your calculations are correct. Great job!
 

FAQ: Determing the kinetic energy of an electron

1. What is kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion.

2. How is kinetic energy calculated?

Kinetic energy is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 * mv^2, where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity.

3. How do you determine the kinetic energy of an electron?

The kinetic energy of an electron can be determined using the same formula as any other object. The mass of an electron is 9.11 x 10^-31 kg and its velocity can be measured using specialized equipment.

4. What unit is used to measure kinetic energy?

Kinetic energy is typically measured in joules (J) in the SI system. In some cases, it may also be measured in electronvolts (eV) in the field of particle physics.

5. How does the kinetic energy of an electron affect its behavior?

The kinetic energy of an electron can affect its behavior in various ways. For example, it can determine the speed at which the electron moves or the amount of energy it can transfer during a collision with another particle.

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