- #1
Alexstre
- 19
- 0
Homework Statement
A proton is fired at a nucleus containing Z protons and N neutrons, with a kinetic energy K. Show that the minimal distance r_0 = [(Ze^2) / 4pi*epsilon_0] * (1/K)
Homework Equations
E=(q/4pi*epsilon_0) * (r-r' / |r-r'|^3)
The Attempt at a Solution
I know that at the minimal distance, the kinetic energy will have become potential energy and that will be "pushed" by the electromagnetic force of the protons in the nucleus. So whenever the proton is stable (ie. not moving), the forces applied to the proton cancel each other out.
I know (think) that the energy applied by the nucleus is something similar to:
E= (q/4pi*epsilon_0) * (r/r3)
and that E_k = 1/2 mv^2
From there I should find the forces and form an equation where they cancel each other out and solve for r_0. I'm just not sure how to proceed to this step.
Thanks!