An alpha particle (a helium nucleus) is traveling along the positive x-axis at 1

Question

An alpha particle (a helium nucleus) is traveling along the positive x-axis at 1425 m/s when it enters a cylindrical tube of radius 0.600 cm centered on the x-axis. Inside the tube is a uniform electric field of 4.00 times 10-4 N/C pointing in the negative y-direction. How far does the particle travel before hitting the tube wall? Neglect any gravitational forces. Note: malpha = 6.64 times 10-27 kg; qalpha = 2e. Your response differs significantly from the correct answer. Rework your solution from the beginning and check each step carefully. m

Explanation / Answer

speed of alpha particle is u = 1425 m/s

radius of cylindrical tube is r = 0.600 cm

the electric field is E = 4.00 x 10^-4 N/C

mass of alpha particle m = 6.64 x 10^-27 kg

charge of alpha particle q = 2e = 2 x 1.6 x 10^-19 C

the electric force on the alpha particle is

F = E x q

or m x a = E x q

or a = (E x q/m)

where a is acceleration of alpha particle

let v be the final speed of alpha particle

we know that

v = u + at

or t = (v - u/a)

where v = 0 and t is time taken

the distance travelled by alpha particle before coming to rest is

S = ut + (1/2)at^2

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