A charged particle with charge + 5.0 μC is initially at rest. It is accelerated through a potential difference of 500 V. What is the kinetic energy of this charged particle?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The kinetic energy gained by the charged particle is equal to the work done on it by the electric field. The formula for work done by an electric field is:
W = qV
where W is work done, q is charge and V is potential difference.
Substituting the values given in the question, we get:
W = (5.0 μC)(500 V) = 2.5 × 10^−3 J
Since the particle was initially at rest, all the work done on it has been converted into kinetic energy. Therefore, the kinetic energy of the charged particle is:
KE = 2.5 × 10^−3 J
which is equivalent to answer choice B.

A Charged Particle with Charge + 5