Electric Potential and Kinetic Energy

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving two identical point charges and their kinetic energy when released from rest. The user attempts to apply the principle of conservation of energy, specifically the relationship between kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE). There is confusion regarding the calculation, as the user initially considers only one charge instead of both. It is emphasized that the total change in kinetic energy for both charges must be accounted for in the solution. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly applying conservation laws in multi-body systems.
jakey
Messages
51
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Two identical +9.5e-6C point charges are initially 3.5 cm from each other. If they are released at the same instant from rest, how fast will each be moving when they are very far from each other? Assume they have identical masses of 1.0mg.

Homework Equations



im not sure with this though but i used D(KE) + D(PE) = 0 where D=delta


The Attempt at a Solution


i used the above equation to solve for v. i kinda considered the problem by taking 1 point charge. however, i can't get the right answer...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
jakey said:
i kinda considered the problem by taking 1 point charge.
What do you mean by that?

There are two point charges. Make sure you consider the total change in KE of both of them.
 
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'

Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'

TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
View full post »
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'

Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'

The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
View full post »

Similar threads

Electric Potential Energy of Point Charge Systems
Replies
2
Views
966
Expression for magnitude of the constant friction force
Replies
7
Views
1K
How to Correctly Solve for the Minimum Distance Between Two Electrons?
Replies
5
Views
1K
Conservation of Momentum Problem - Mechanical and Kinetic Energies
Replies
2
Views
979
Kinetic Energy of a Cylinder Rolling Without Slipping
Replies
21
Views
4K
Kinetic Energy of a Charged Particle near a Charged Ring
Replies
2
Views
1K
Minimizing the Energy of Two Conductors Very Far Apart
Replies
23
Views
2K
Why Is Work Positive When Done Against the Electric Field?
Replies
22
Views
3K
Understanding the energy of a dipole in a uniform electric field
Replies
2
Views
2K
How Is Potential Energy Converted to Kinetic Energy in Physical Systems?
Replies
6
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top