A charge accelerating between two plates

In summary, a charge accelerating between two plates is a concept in physics where an electric charge is accelerated by an electric field created between two parallel plates. This phenomenon is known as the parallel plate capacitor and is used in various electronic devices, such as capacitors. The acceleration of the charge is determined by the strength of the electric field and the distance between the plates. This concept is important in understanding the behavior of electric charges and their movement in various systems.
  • #1
Googl
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1
Hi all,

Suppose an alpha particle of 3.2 x 10-19 C accelerates from rest between two oppositely charged plates starting from the positive plate. The electric field between the plates is uniform equal to 39000N/C. The distance between the plates is 4.50 x 10-3m

Does the alpha particle potential energy change? I assume since the field is uniform then the PE will not change.
 
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  • #2
There is a change. When the particle travels from the positive to the negative plate, it accelerates and acquires some kinetic energy (and radiates some too). The necessary work has been done by the electric field and, since it is a conservative field, there is an associated change in electrostatic potential energy
 
  • #3
To see the relation between work and voltage, check out http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/electric/elewor.html"
 
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Related to A charge accelerating between two plates

What is the concept of "A charge accelerating between two plates"?

The concept of "A charge accelerating between two plates" refers to the movement of an electric charge between two parallel plates that have a potential difference. This results in the charge gaining kinetic energy and accelerating towards the plate with the opposite charge.

How does the distance between the plates affect the acceleration of the charge?

The distance between the plates directly affects the strength of the electric field between them. The closer the plates are, the stronger the electric field and the greater the acceleration of the charge. As the distance between the plates increases, the electric field weakens and the charge accelerates at a slower rate.

What is the role of the potential difference in the acceleration of the charge?

The potential difference between the two plates is what creates the electric field that causes the charge to accelerate. The greater the potential difference, the stronger the electric field and the greater the acceleration of the charge. Without a potential difference, there would be no electric field and no acceleration of the charge.

What factors affect the speed of the charge as it accelerates between the plates?

The speed of the charge as it accelerates between the plates is affected by the strength of the electric field, the magnitude of the charge, and the distance between the plates. The greater the electric field, charge, and closer the plates, the faster the charge will accelerate.

How is the motion of the charge affected by the direction of the electric field between the plates?

The direction of the electric field between the plates determines the direction of the acceleration of the charge. If the electric field is directed towards the positive plate, the charge will accelerate towards the positive plate. If the electric field is directed towards the negative plate, the charge will accelerate towards the negative plate.

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