Force on an electron between two parallel plates

In summary, the force on an electron between two parallel plates is the electrostatic force exerted on the electron perpendicular to both the electric field and the direction of motion. It can be calculated using the formula F = qE and is affected by the charge of the electron, strength of the electric field, and distance between the plates. Studying this force is significant in understanding charge behavior and developing technologies such as capacitors and particle accelerators.
  • #1
bsmm11
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Homework Statement


Two parallel plates are separated by 10.0cm and a potential difference of 500.0V is maintained between them. What is the force on an electron between the plates?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


E = F / q = kQ / r2
V = kQ / r = Er = Fr / q
F = Vq / r = 500.0 * e / 0.100 = 8 * 10-16

The actual answer is 8 * 10-18
Where did my calculation go wrong?
 
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  • #2
I got the same answer as yourself.Don't forget the units.
 

Related to Force on an electron between two parallel plates

What is the definition of force on an electron between two parallel plates?

The force on an electron between two parallel plates is the electrostatic force exerted on the electron due to the presence of an electric field between the plates. This force is perpendicular to both the direction of the electric field and the direction of motion of the electron.

How is the force on an electron between two parallel plates calculated?

The force on an electron between two parallel plates can be calculated using the formula F = qE, where F is the force, q is the charge of the electron, and E is the strength of the electric field between the plates. This formula is derived from Coulomb's Law.

What factors affect the force on an electron between two parallel plates?

The force on an electron between two parallel plates is affected by the charge of the electron, the strength of the electric field, and the distance between the plates. A stronger electric field or a larger charge on the electron will result in a greater force, while a larger distance between the plates will result in a weaker force.

What is the direction of the force on an electron between two parallel plates?

The force on an electron between two parallel plates is always perpendicular to both the electric field and the direction of motion of the electron. This means that the force will either push the electron towards one of the plates or pull it away from the plates, depending on the direction of the electric field.

What is the significance of studying the force on an electron between two parallel plates?

Studying the force on an electron between two parallel plates is important for understanding the behavior of charges in an electric field. This concept is also crucial in the development of technologies such as capacitors and particle accelerators, which rely on the manipulation of electric fields to produce desired effects.

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