Q6MCQ A proton \(\left( {{\bf{Q = 聽+ ... [FREE SOLUTION]

Chapter 17: Q6MCQ (page 473)

A proton \(\left( {{\bf{Q = + e}}} \right)\) and an electron \(\left( {{\bf{Q = - e}}} \right)\) are in a constant electric field created by oppositely charged plates. You release the proton from near the positive plate and the electron from near the negative plate. Which feels the larger electric force?
(a) The proton.
(b) The electron.
(c) Neither鈥攖here is no force.
(d) The magnitude of the force is the same for both and in the same direction.
(e) The magnitude of the force is the same for both but in opposite directions.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The correct answer is option (e) The magnitude of the force is the same for both but in opposite directions.

Step by step solution

Understanding the electric force

One of the major misconceptions is that an electron will have greater electric force because it experiences higher acceleration. However, the electric force relies on the electric field as well as the charge.

Evaluation of the magnitude of the force

The relation of electric force is given by,

\(F = QE\)

Here, Qis the charge and Eis the electric field.

The magnitude of charge for both electron and proton is the same, but they have opposite signs. Since the particles are in the same electric field, the magnitude of electric force will be equal on both particles, and only the direction is opposite.

Thus, the correct option is (e).