Finding the Minimum Kinetic Energy of Electrons in an Electric Field

In summary: K.E = qV - q/(4πεₒr)In summary, The problem involves two metal plates PQ and RS separated by a distance of 15 mm. PQ is maintained at a potential of +100V relative to RS. A beam of electrons directed at an angle of 60 degrees to plate PQ is used to find the kinetic energy of electrons that just reach plate RS. The kinetic energy can be calculated using the formula K.E = qV - q/(4πεₒr), where q is the charge of the electron and V is the potential difference between the plates. However, using equations of motion may also be a valid approach for solving this problem.
  • #1
nks27
3
0

Homework Statement



Two metal plates, PQ AND RS are separated by a distance of 15 mm.
PQ maintained at potential of +100V relative to RS.
Beam of electrons of different kinetic energies directed a slit ,on plate PQ, at angle of 60 degrees to plate.
To find the K.E of electrons that 'just' reach the plate RS.


Homework Equations



work done by electric field = K.E of electrons

k.E = qV


The Attempt at a Solution



i can't figure how to work this out
Should potential energy also be considered?
Is my attempt at the question wrong?
 
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  • #2
Hi nks27! Welcome to PF :smile:

nks27 said:

Homework Statement



Two metal plates, PQ AND RS are separated by a distance of 15 mm.
PQ maintained at potential of +100V relative to RS.
Beam of electrons of different kinetic energies directed a slit ,on plate PQ, at angle of 60 degrees to plate.
To find the K.E of electrons that 'just' reach the plate RS.


Homework Equations



work done by electric field = K.E of electrons

k.E = qV


The Attempt at a Solution



i can't figure how to work this out
Should potential energy also be considered?
Is my attempt at the question wrong?

I believe you want to use the energy conservation principle. So yes, you do need to include potential energy...
 
  • #3
i the use this formula

work done
against electric = K.E + P.E
field
K.E = work done - P.E

= qV - q/(4πεₒr)

but i don't get the answer.
Cud u please correct my careless mistake if there's any?
 
  • #4
nks27 said:
i the use this formula

work done
against electric = K.E + P.E
field

From where did you get potential energy?
Instead using the energy conservation, you can use the equations of motion too. :wink:
 
  • #5
nks27 said:
i the use this formula

work done
against electric = K.E + P.E
field
K.E = work done - P.E

= qV - q/(4πεₒr)

but i don't get the answer.
Cud u please correct my careless mistake if there's any?

Umm no. How did you get q/(4πεₒr)??


The kinetic energy change will result in potential energy. Now, for the minimum kinetic energy you need the final velocity to have no x component(assuming vertical plates). So you have,

[tex]\frac{1}{2}m(v_x)^2 +\frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2 = qV + \frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2[/tex]
 
  • #6
Pranav-Arora said:
From where did you get potential energy?
Instead using the energy conservation, you can use the equations of motion too. :wink:

I would prefer conservation of energy, but this method works too :smile:
 
  • #7
Infinitum said:
Umm no. How did you get q/(4πεₒr)??


The kinetic energy change will result in potential energy. Now, for the minimum kinetic energy you need the final velocity to have no x component(assuming vertical plates). So you have,

[tex]\frac{1}{2}m(v_x)^2 +\frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2 = qV + \frac{1}{2}m(v_y)^2[/tex]


sorry for late post.
substituting v_x = vcos60
and v_y = vsin60

q= 1.6 X 10^-19 and V= 100 V


i get v^2 to be 1.41 X 10^14

using it to calculate the k.E doesn't give the right answer :(


the " q/(4πεₒr) " was for electric potential .
 

FAQ: Finding the Minimum Kinetic Energy of Electrons in an Electric Field

What are electrons in an electric field?

Electrons are negatively charged particles that are found in atoms. When placed in an electric field, they experience a force and can move from one location to another.

How do electrons behave in an electric field?

Electrons in an electric field will move in the direction of the electric field lines, from a higher potential to a lower potential. This movement is known as electron flow.

What is the relationship between electric fields and electrons?

Electric fields and electrons have an inverse relationship. The strength of the electric field is directly proportional to the force experienced by an electron. As the electric field increases, the force on the electron also increases.

Can electrons be controlled in an electric field?

Yes, electrons can be controlled in an electric field. By adjusting the strength and direction of the electric field, the movement and behavior of electrons can be manipulated. This is the basis for many electronic devices and technology.

How does an electric field affect the speed of electrons?

An electric field can increase the speed of electrons by accelerating them. As the electrons move through the electric field, they gain kinetic energy and their speed increases. The speed of the electrons is also affected by the strength of the electric field and the mass of the electron.

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