Kinetic Energy Gain due to Coulomb Force

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving the kinetic energy gained by a point charge when interacting with another point charge. The problem involves two point charges with equal signs and masses, separated by a distance R. The goal is to determine the resultant velocity of one of the charges, given that it has no initial velocity. The conversation also mentions relevant equations, and the individual's attempt at solving the problem by equating the change in kinetic energy with the change in electric potential energy. The resulting solution is deemed correct.
  • #1
quantumfoam
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4

Homework Statement


Hi guys! I have a problem pertaining to the kinetic energy gained by a point charge from interacting with a another point charge. Here's the problem: A point charge of mass m1 and charge q is placed near another point charge with mass m2 and charge Q. Both charges are of equal sign. The two charges are separated by a distance R. If the charge q was held stationary and the charge Q was allowed to move, what would be the resultant velocity of charge Q given that it has no initial velocity?


Homework Equations


ΔV=kQq/R and ΔKE=(m2/2)(v2)


The Attempt at a Solution


I equated the change in kinetic energy of Q that would result from the electric repulsion with the change in electric potential energy between the two charges. I then rearranged the equality to solve for v:

v=(2kQq/Rm2)1/2

Is this a correct method of solving this problem?
 
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  • #2
I think your solution is right.
 
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Related to Kinetic Energy Gain due to Coulomb Force

1. What is kinetic energy gain due to Coulomb force?

Kinetic energy gain due to Coulomb force refers to the increase in the energy of a charged particle as it moves through an electric field. This gain in energy is a result of the Coulomb force, which is the force of attraction or repulsion between two charged particles.

2. How does Coulomb force affect kinetic energy?

Coulomb force can either increase or decrease the kinetic energy of a charged particle, depending on the direction of the force. If the force is in the same direction as the particle's motion, it will increase its kinetic energy. If the force is in the opposite direction, it will decrease the kinetic energy.

3. What factors affect the kinetic energy gain due to Coulomb force?

The kinetic energy gain due to Coulomb force is affected by the magnitude of the charge on the particle, the strength of the electric field, and the distance between the two charged particles. The greater the charge and electric field, and the closer the particles are, the greater the kinetic energy gain will be.

4. Can kinetic energy gain due to Coulomb force be converted into other forms of energy?

Yes, kinetic energy gained due to Coulomb force can be converted into other forms of energy, such as potential energy or thermal energy, depending on the circumstances. For example, if the charged particle is moving in a circular motion due to the Coulomb force, its kinetic energy can be converted into potential energy as it moves further away from the source of the force.

5. How is kinetic energy gain due to Coulomb force related to electric potential energy?

The kinetic energy gain due to Coulomb force and electric potential energy are closely related. Electric potential energy is the energy that a charged particle possesses due to its position in an electric field. As the particle moves through the field and experiences the Coulomb force, this potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy, resulting in a gain in kinetic energy for the particle.

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