What Is the Maximum Speed of an Alpha Particle with 2.34 MeV Kinetic Energy?

In summary, an alpha particle is a type of ionizing radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons bound together. It has a positive charge and can travel at speeds of around 5% of the speed of light, which is approximately 150,000 kilometers per second. The speed of an alpha particle can be measured using various techniques, and it is important because it determines how far the particle can travel and how much damage it can cause. While the speed of alpha particles cannot be directly controlled, scientists can manipulate the energy levels of radioactive materials to control their speed.
  • #1
Kommandant
15
0

Homework Statement



An Alpha Particle is emitted with a kinetic energy of 2.34 MeV during a radioactive decay process. The maximum speed of the alpha particle is?

Homework Equations



KE=mv2
1 ev = 1.6x10-19j

The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]\sqrt{(2.34x10^6)(1.6x10^-19)/4(1.6x10^-27)}[/tex]

Unfortunately the manual uses this solution for the problem:

[tex]\sqrt{2(2.34x10^6)(1.6x10^-19)/4(1.6x10^-27)}[/tex]

Could anyone explain to me where the 2 comes from?
 
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  • #2
Nevermind... I see what I did wrong..

KE= 1/2 mv^2 DUHHHH
 

FAQ: What Is the Maximum Speed of an Alpha Particle with 2.34 MeV Kinetic Energy?

What is an alpha particle?

An alpha particle is a type of ionizing radiation consisting of two protons and two neutrons bound together. It has a positive charge and is typically emitted by radioactive materials.

What is the speed of an alpha particle?

The speed of an alpha particle can vary depending on the energy level at which it is emitted. On average, however, alpha particles travel at speeds of around 5% of the speed of light, which is approximately 150,000 kilometers per second.

How is the speed of an alpha particle measured?

The speed of an alpha particle can be measured using a variety of techniques, including time-of-flight measurements and scintillation detectors. These methods involve tracking the movement of the particles and calculating their speed based on their time and distance traveled.

Why is the speed of an alpha particle important?

The speed of an alpha particle is important because it determines how far the particle can travel and how much damage it can cause. In general, the faster the particle, the more energy it carries and the more likely it is to cause damage to biological tissues.

Can the speed of alpha particles be controlled?

The speed of alpha particles cannot be directly controlled, as it is determined by the energy level at which they are emitted. However, scientists can manipulate the energy levels of radioactive materials to control the speed of alpha particles emitted from them.

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