Calculate mass of oil droplet between parallel plates

In summary, the problem involves finding the mass of an oil droplet with an extra electron, held motionless between parallel plates with a potential difference of 39.8 kV and a separation of 1.89 cm. The relevant equations are E=0.5QV and C=Q/V. To find the mass, the electric force on the droplet should be set equal to its weight.
  • #1
PhysicsMan999
32
0

Homework Statement



  1. A droplet of oil, carrying an extra charge of one electron, is held motionless between parallel plates separated by 1.89 cm, with a potential difference of 39.8 kV. What is the mass of the droplet?

2. Homework Equations

E=0.5QV
C=Q/V

The Attempt at a Solution


Really don't even know how to start here..I figured I would need kinetic energy to find the mass but the velocity is 0, so there would be none.[/B]
 
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  • #2
PhysicsMan999 said:

Homework Statement



  1. A droplet of oil, carrying an extra charge of one electron, is held motionless between parallel plates separated by 1.89 cm, with a potential difference of 39.8 kV. What is the mass of the droplet?

2. Homework Equations

E=0.5QV
C=Q/V

The Attempt at a Solution


Really don't even know how to start here..I figured I would need kinetic energy to find the mass but the velocity is 0, so there would be none.[/B]

The problem should really tell you this, but you should assume that the force holding the droplet fixed is the weight of the droplet. Find the electric force on the droplet and set it equal to the gravitational force.
 
  • #3
Oh, well that was easy then. Thanks!
 

Related to Calculate mass of oil droplet between parallel plates

1. How do you calculate the mass of an oil droplet between parallel plates?

To calculate the mass of an oil droplet between parallel plates, you will need to know the density of the oil, the distance between the plates, and the surface area of the droplet. The formula for calculating mass is mass = density x volume. The volume of the droplet can be calculated using the surface area and the distance between the plates.

2. What is the density of oil?

The density of oil can vary depending on the type of oil. However, the average density of crude oil is around 850 kg/m3. It is important to accurately measure the density of the specific oil being used in the calculation.

3. How do you measure the distance between parallel plates?

The distance between parallel plates can be measured using a ruler or a caliper. It is important to make sure the measurement is taken at the same location on both plates to ensure accuracy.

4. Can the mass of an oil droplet between parallel plates change over time?

Yes, the mass of an oil droplet can change over time due to evaporation or absorption of other substances. It is important to take into account any changes in the oil droplet when calculating its mass.

5. Why is it important to calculate the mass of an oil droplet between parallel plates?

Calculating the mass of an oil droplet between parallel plates is important in many scientific experiments and studies. It can help determine the properties of the oil, such as its density and viscosity, which can be useful in various industries such as oil and gas, food, and cosmetics. It can also provide insights into the behavior of fluids in confined spaces, which can have practical applications in engineering and technology.

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