Solving Cancer Tumours w/ High Energy Ions

[acpyrus]

I would appreciate some hints in how to get started with this problem:

You are asked to consult for the city's research hospital, where a group of doctors is investigating the bombardment of cancer tumours with high energy ions. The ions are fired directly toward the center of the tumour at speeds of 5.0 x 10^6 m/s. To cover the entire area, the ions are deflected sideways by passing them between two charged metal plates that accelerate the ions perpendicular to the direction of their initial motion. The acceleration region is 5.0 cm long, and the ends of the acceleration plates are 1.5 m from the patient. What acceleration is required to move an ion 2.0 cm across the tumour?

 

[Fermat]

Let $$a_p$$ be the acceleration across the plates.
When the electron has reached the end of the plates, what is the sideways deflection ?
What are its velocities at this point, and at what direction, to the inital direction of motion, is it traveling ?
After having passed through the plates, what is the motion of the electron now ?
Can you track this motion such that the total sideways deflection is 2.0 cm ?

 

[quicknote]

I would first start by gathering more information about the experimental setup and the properties of high energy ions. I would want to know the type and energy level of the ions being used, as well as the specific type of cancer being targeted and its characteristics.

Next, I would research the effects of high energy ion bombardment on cancer tumours, looking for previous studies and results. This would help me understand the potential benefits and limitations of this approach.

In terms of solving the problem at hand, I would start by analyzing the given information and drawing a diagram to visualize the setup. Based on the given dimensions, I would calculate the electric field strength needed to accelerate the ions to the required velocity of 5.0 x 10^6 m/s. This can be done using the formula E = V/d, where E is the electric field strength, V is the potential difference between the plates, and d is the distance between the plates.

Once the electric field strength is determined, I would then calculate the acceleration required to move an ion 2.0 cm across the tumour. This can be done using the formula a = qE/m, where a is the acceleration, q is the charge of the ion, E is the electric field strength, and m is the mass of the ion.

I would also consider any potential safety concerns and make sure that the acceleration used is within a safe range for the patient. Additionally, I would suggest conducting further experiments and simulations to optimize the experimental setup and determine the most effective parameters for treating cancer tumours with high energy ions.

Overall, approaching this problem would involve a combination of research, calculations, and careful consideration of various factors. Collaboration with medical professionals and other scientists would also be beneficial in finding the best solution for this complex problem.