Work needed to move an Electron

In summary, the task is to calculate the work required (in electron-volts) to move an electron from 15.1 m to 16.2 m away from a +3.50 μC point charge. The relevant equation is W=qΔV, but the force will decrease as the electron moves away and thus an "integral of force times dx" approach is necessary. Using the potential can make this calculation more convenient.
  • #1
Krysrhap
2
0

Homework Statement


Calculate the amount of work (in electron-volts) it would take to move an electron from 15.1 m to 16.2 m away from a +3.50 μC point charge.

Homework Equations


W=qΔV (?)
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The Attempt at a Solution


None yet. I'm not even sure where to start!
 
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  • #2
Krysrhap said:
W=qΔV (?)
That equation can be useful, yes.

What is the potential of a point charge at a distance r?
 
  • #3
The force will decrease as you move the electron away from the charge so just "force times distance" is not sufficient. You will need to use "integral or force times dx".
 
  • #4
HallsofIvy said:
The force will decrease as you move the electron away from the charge so just "force times distance" is not sufficient. You will need to use "integral or force times dx".
Correct. And complicated. That's why it's convenient to use the potential. Post #2 puts the key question for this one !
 
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FAQ: Work needed to move an Electron

1. What is the work needed to move an electron?

The work needed to move an electron is the amount of energy required to move an electron from one point to another, usually measured in joules (J) or electron volts (eV).

2. How is the work needed to move an electron calculated?

The work needed to move an electron is calculated by multiplying the potential difference (voltage) by the charge of an electron. This can be represented by the equation W = qV, where W is the work, q is the charge of an electron (1.6 x 10^-19 C), and V is the potential difference.

3. Does the work needed to move an electron vary in different materials?

Yes, the work needed to move an electron can vary in different materials. This is because different materials have different energy levels for their electrons, known as band structures. The amount of work needed to move an electron depends on the distance between these energy levels.

4. How does the work needed to move an electron relate to electric current?

The work needed to move an electron is directly related to electric current. When an electron moves through a material, it transfers energy and creates an electric current. The amount of energy required to move the electron determines the strength of the electric current.

5. Can the work needed to move an electron be negative?

Yes, the work needed to move an electron can be negative. This can occur when the potential difference is negative, meaning that the electron is moving in the opposite direction of the electric field. In this case, work is being done on the electron, rather than by the electron.

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