Total kinetic energy of two protons

In summary, two protons with a charge of +1.6 x 10^-19 C are initially held fixed at a distance of 3 angstroms from each other. After they are released, they repel each other and acquire kinetic energy. The final total kinetic energy when they are at a large distance from each other can be calculated using the equations for potential electric energy and kinetic energy. The mistake in the original solution was using the wrong conversion factor for units.
  • #1
Zvaigzdute
10
0

Homework Statement



Two protons are held fixed at a distance of 3 angstroms (3 x 10-10 m) from
one another. The protons have a charge of +1.6 x 10-19 C. After they are released they
repel each other and fly apart and each acquires some kinetic energy. What is the final
total kinetic energy of the two particles when they are at a large distance from each other?

Homework Equations



Potential Electric Energy= (1/4pie)*q1q2/r
Ki+Ui=Kf+Uf

The Attempt at a Solution



3A * (3e-10m/1 A) = 9e-10m
Ue=(9e9 Nm^2/C^2)(1.6e-19C)(1.6e-19C)/(9e-10m)= 2.56e-19 Nm

And I know that as r goes to infinity, potential energy goes to 0
thus
0+Ui=Kf+0
2.56e-19J=Kf
But the answer is 7.7e-19, what i am doing wrong, what step am I missing thank you!
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF :smile:

Zvaigzdute said:

The Attempt at a Solution



3A * (3e-10m/1 A) = 9e-10m
When you multiply by (3e-10m/1 A) to convert units, that is saying that
1 A = 3e-10m​
and this is incorrect.

Actually, you do not need to calculate the distance in m; the problem statement tells you that the protons are ____m apart.

Hope that helps.
 
  • #3
Yes thank you very much! Wow that was really stupid of me
 

FAQ: Total kinetic energy of two protons

1. What is the total kinetic energy of two protons?

The total kinetic energy of two protons is the sum of the kinetic energies of both protons. In other words, it is the combined energy that both protons possess due to their motion.

2. How is the total kinetic energy of two protons calculated?

The total kinetic energy of two protons can be calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 * m * v^2, where m is the mass of the proton and v is its velocity. This formula can be applied to both protons and then their energies can be added together to get the total kinetic energy.

3. Does the total kinetic energy of two protons change?

Yes, the total kinetic energy of two protons can change. It depends on the velocity of the protons, which can change due to external forces acting on them. As the velocity changes, the kinetic energy will also change accordingly.

4. What is the unit of measurement for the total kinetic energy of two protons?

The unit of measurement for the total kinetic energy of two protons is joules (J). This is the standard unit of energy in the International System of Units (SI).

5. Can the total kinetic energy of two protons be negative?

No, the total kinetic energy of two protons cannot be negative. This is because kinetic energy is always a positive quantity, representing the energy of motion. If the protons were to lose all of their kinetic energy, it would be represented as 0 J, not a negative value.

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