Proton is moving at an alpha particle, distance when it stops

In summary, an alpha particle with a charge of 2e is fixed at the origin and a proton is shot at it from a distance of 2.00 m at a speed of 3.46x10^6 m/s. The relevant equations are 1/2mv^2 and kq/r^2, and the conservation rule involved is the conservation of energy. The proton will come closest to the alpha particle before coming to a stop.
  • #1
niveda
3
0

Homework Statement


an alpha particle with a charge of 2e is fixed at the origin. a proton is aimed at the alpha particle and shot from a distance of 2.00 m at a speed of 3.46x10^6 m/s. How close will the proton come to the alpha particle before coming to a stop?

Homework Equations


Please help I need to know this for my test!

The Attempt at a Solution


Ek=Ee (maybe ?) [/B]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
A plea for help is not a relevant equation. Follow through on your suggested solution approach: What equations are relevant here?
 
  • #3
So is it correct that Ek=Ee?
If that's the case then 1/2mv^2 and kq/r^2 would be relevant
 
  • #4
niveda said:
So is it correct that Ek=Ee?
The basic idea is correct. You'll have to expand on it though; What conservation rule is involved?
If that's the case then 1/2mv^2 and kq/r^2 would be relevant
Yes.
 

Related to Proton is moving at an alpha particle, distance when it stops

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

A proton and an alpha particle are both subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. A proton is a positively charged particle, while an alpha particle is made up of two protons and two neutrons and has a positive charge.

2. How does the distance affect the movement of a proton and an alpha particle?

The distance between a proton and an alpha particle will affect their movement due to the force of attraction or repulsion between them. As the distance decreases, the force of attraction increases, causing the particles to move towards each other. As the distance increases, the force of attraction decreases, causing the particles to move away from each other.

3. What happens when a proton and an alpha particle collide?

When a proton and an alpha particle collide, they may undergo a nuclear reaction, resulting in the formation of a new element. The type of reaction that occurs depends on the kinetic energy of the particles and the stability of the resulting element.

4. How does the speed of a proton affect its distance traveled?

The speed of a proton will affect the distance it travels before it stops. The faster the proton is moving, the greater its kinetic energy, and the further it will travel before coming to a stop.

5. What factors determine the distance a proton will travel before stopping?

The distance a proton will travel before stopping is determined by its initial speed, the force of attraction or repulsion between the particles, and any external forces acting upon the particles. Other factors such as the mass and charge of the particles may also play a role.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
17K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
14K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
Back
Top