How Is Maximum Speed Calculated for Identical Charges Released Simultaneously?

In summary, the question asks for the maximum speed attained by three identical charges placed in a specific arrangement and then released simultaneously. The formula for finding this speed is derived from the potential energy equation, using the work done to bring the third charge to its position and the distance between the charges. This results in a maximum speed of 600 m/s, but this may not be entirely accurate due to the variability of potential between the charges.
  • #1
apphysicsgirl
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Homework Statement


Two identical +6x10^-6 C charges, each with a mass of 10^-6, are placed as shown in the diagram below. All coordinates are in meters.
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An identical charge is brought in slowly from far away to point P.
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All three charges are released simultaneously. What is the maximum speed attained by each of them?


Homework Equations


V=U/q
deltaU=-deltaK


The Attempt at a Solution


I found in one part of the question that the work that it took to bring the third charge to point P was 0.18 J. I then did 0.18=-Kf+Ki to try and solve for a velocity. I got 600 m/s, but this was incorrect. I am not sure what else to do; I feel like there is something that I am missing on how to find a velocity for EACH charge.
 

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  • #2
Not exactly sure if this is right, but I would try using:

[tex]\Delta K = -q\Delta V[/tex]

The potential is not the same for all charges, since the distance varies according to:

[tex]V=\frac{1}{4\pi\epsilon_o}\frac{q}{r}[/tex]

For one charge, the total potential is the sum of potentials due to the other two charges.
 

FAQ: How Is Maximum Speed Calculated for Identical Charges Released Simultaneously?

What is electric potential?

Electric potential is the measure of the electric potential energy per unit charge at a specific point in space. It is a scalar quantity and is measured in volts.

How is electric potential different from electric field?

Electric potential is a measure of the potential energy of a charged particle at a specific point, while electric field is a measure of the force that would be exerted on a charged particle at that point. Electric potential is dependent on the position and charge of the particle, while electric field is dependent on the position and charge of other particles in the vicinity.

What is the unit of electric potential?

The unit of electric potential is the volt (V), which is equivalent to joules per coulomb (J/C).

How is electric potential related to electric potential energy?

Electric potential is directly proportional to electric potential energy. The electric potential energy of a charged particle at a point is equal to the electric potential at that point multiplied by the charge of the particle.

Can electric potential be negative?

Yes, electric potential can be negative. This indicates that the direction of the electric field is opposite to the direction of the particle's motion. A negative electric potential does not necessarily mean a decrease in electric potential energy, as it depends on the charge of the particle.

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