Consider the potential map below. On this map arc 14 points in space where the p

Question

Consider the potential map below. On this map arc 14 points in space where the potential was measured. Your goal is to consider what would happen to an electron was placed at any 3 of those points. Explain. Try to answer this without the hints first and then turn it over. Where does the electron have the highest potential energy? Where does it have the lowest potential energy? How does the electric field direction relate to the change in potential energy of an electron moving around in this region of space?

Explanation / Answer

(a) the diagram gives the equiotential lines which are starignt lines along y axis from 0 to 90 volts.if the electrn is placed at any of the points, it will move from that region to a region of higher potential becuause it has negative charge. now the potential increases in the positive x axis direction(from 0 to 90 v), so the electron will move along positive x axis (towards right).

(b)potential energy= q V = - e V

where -e= -1.6x10^-19 C is the charge of electron.

so the electron has a highest potential energy at a point on the 0v line.

the electron has a lowst potential energy at apoint on 90 v line.

the electron moves from the region of lower potential to a region of higher potential. also electron has a negative charge , so it moves in opposite direction of the eletric field. so the eletric fiild in this case along negative x axis with the lines of force directed from 90 v line to 0 volt line.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse C
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.