How Does an Electron's Speed Change Across a Potential Difference?

In summary, an electron changed its velocity from vi=8114.3 km/s to vf=2233.7 km/s as it traveled through a region of space where the electric force was the only force acting on it. To calculate the potential difference across which the electron traveled, we can use the equation Qe * V = (0.5 * m * Vf^2) - (0.5 * m * Vi^2), where Qe is the charge of the electron (-1.602 * 10^(-19) C), V is the potential difference, and m is the mass of the electron (9.11*10^-31 kg). Plugging in the values, we get V = [(
  • #1
Mike_ Howard927
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Homework Statement


As an electron moved through a region of space, its speed changed from an initial velocity of vi=8114.3 km/s to the final velocity vf=2233.7 km/s. The electric force was the only force acting on the electron.

Across what potential difference did the electron travel?

Homework Equations


Qe * V = (0.5 * m * Vf^2) - (0.5 * m * Vi^2)

Qe = Charge of Electron = -1.602 * 10^(-19)
V = Potential Difference
m = Mass of Electron

The Attempt at a Solution


V = [( 0.5 ) * ( 9.11*10^-31 kg ) * ( 2.2337*10^6 m/s )^2] - [( 0.5 ) * ( 9.11*10^-31 kg ) * ( 8.1143*10^6 m/s )^2] /
( -1.602*10^-19 C )

The answer I keep getting is V = 173 Volts, but that's incorrect. It may be my math, but if anyone can help I would appreciate it.
 
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  • #2
I think you are close to the right answer. If an electron goes from a point of lower potential to a point of higher potential would the electron slow down or speed up?
 

FAQ: How Does an Electron's Speed Change Across a Potential Difference?

What is electrostatic potential energy?

Electrostatic potential energy is the energy stored in a system of charged particles due to their positions and interactions with each other. It is a form of potential energy, meaning it has the potential to do work.

How is electrostatic potential energy calculated?

The formula for calculating electrostatic potential energy is U = k * (q1 * q2) / r, where k is the Coulomb's constant, q1 and q2 are the charges of the particles, and r is the distance between them.

What is the relationship between electrostatic potential energy and distance?

The electrostatic potential energy between two charged particles is inversely proportional to the distance between them. This means that as the distance increases, the potential energy decreases. As the distance decreases, the potential energy increases.

What is the difference between electrostatic potential energy and electrostatic force?

Electrostatic potential energy is the energy stored in a system of charged particles, while electrostatic force is the force of attraction or repulsion between charged particles. The two are related, as changes in potential energy can result in changes in force.

How is electrostatic potential energy used in real life?

Electrostatic potential energy has many applications in our daily lives. It is used in devices such as batteries, capacitors, and generators. It is also important in understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules, which is essential in fields such as chemistry and materials science.

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