Electric Potential Homework: Proton vs Alpha Particle

In summary, when a proton is in a place with an electric potential of V, it has a potential energy of E. If an alpha particle, which has twice the charge of a proton and four times the mass, is placed in the same location, it will experience a change in electric potential. The electric potential is determined by the outside world and is not affected by the mass or charge of the particle.
  • #1
Philip KP
18
2

Homework Statement


A proton is in a place where the electric potential is V, and as a result it has a potential energy E. If you replace the proton with an alpha particle (twice the charge of the proton and four times the mass) in the same place, it will experience an electric potential

Homework Equations


Va=(PEa/q)[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution


So this might be short but I have a final exam soon and there are no tutors so I'm just trying to make sure this is how it works.

What I think so far is that since the charge (q) is increasing by factor of 2, the denominator will increase..making the electric potential decrease by 2? I also believe the mass has no part in it since we know the charge is 2q. But that's where I am unsure.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Mass nor charge detemine V. V is determined by the outside world.

Your term electric potential is confusing. The potential energy is qV, the electrostatic potential is V.
 

Related to Electric Potential Homework: Proton vs Alpha Particle

1. What is the difference between a proton and an alpha particle?

A proton is a subatomic particle with a positive charge and a mass of approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu). It is found in the nucleus of an atom. An alpha particle, also known as a helium nucleus, is made up of two protons and two neutrons and has a positive charge of 2. It is larger and more massive than a proton.

2. How do protons and alpha particles differ in terms of electric potential?

Electric potential is a measure of the potential energy per unit charge of a particle. Protons and alpha particles have different electric potentials due to their differing masses and charges. The electric potential of a proton is about 938 times greater than that of an alpha particle.

3. How does the electric potential of a proton or alpha particle affect its movement?

The electric potential of a particle determines the strength and direction of its electric field. A higher electric potential results in a stronger electric field, which can affect the movement of a particle. Protons and alpha particles will move in opposite directions in an electric field due to their opposite charges.

4. Can protons and alpha particles have the same electric potential?

No, protons and alpha particles cannot have the same electric potential. This is because they have different charges and masses, which determine their electric potential. However, they can have the same kinetic energy or speed if they are accelerated by the same electric potential.

5. How is electric potential measured in protons and alpha particles?

Electric potential is measured in volts (V) for both protons and alpha particles. This is because volts are a unit of energy per unit charge, which is what electric potential represents. The electric potential of a proton or alpha particle can be calculated using the equation V = kQ/r, where k is the Coulomb's constant, Q is the charge, and r is the distance from the particle to a point where the electric potential is being measured.

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