An alpha particle (helium nucleus, charge +2 e ) starts from...

An alpha particle (helium nucleus, charge $+2 e$ ) starts from rest and travels a distance of $1.0 \mathrm{cm}$ under the influence of a uniform electric field of magnitude $10.0 \mathrm{kV} / \mathrm{m}$ What is the final kinetic energy of the alpha particle?

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Key Concepts

Electric Potential Energy

Electric potential energy is the energy stored by a charged particle in an electric field, arising from its position relative to other charges or an external field. It quantifies the work that has been done to move the charge into that position and is converted into kinetic energy as the particle moves.

Work-Energy Principle

The work-energy principle states that the work done by forces on an object results in a change in its kinetic energy. In the context of an electric field, the work done on a charged particle by the electric force translates directly into a gain or loss of kinetic energy, bridging the connection between force, energy, and motion.

Uniform Electric Field

A uniform electric field has the same magnitude and direction at every point in space. It exerts a constant force on charged particles, leading to a uniform acceleration, and simplifies the analysis of particle motion and energy changes over a given distance.

Force on a Charged Particle

Charged particles experience a force when placed in an electric field, determined by the product of their charge and the electric field strength. This force is fundamental in understanding how particles are accelerated and how their kinetic energy changes as they move within the field.

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