Consider the graph of potential V vs position x at right . For this problem, con

Question

Consider the graph of potential V vs position x at right. For this problem, consider only the x-direction.

a. Imagine an electron (qelectron = –e < 0) is released from rest at position x0. In which direction would the electron initially move? Begin your explanation by using the graph to determine the direction of the electric field. Your explanation should take at most 3 sentences or equations.

B. If the electron does indeed move in the direction you determined, would the potential energy increase or decrease? Begin your explanation by using your answer to part a. Your explanation should take at most 2 sentences or equations.

Explanation / Answer

Any particle has a tendency to move in a direction in which it's potential energy decreases.

Since U=qV

So

U=-eV

Electron will have a tendency to move in a direction in which potential increases .

I.e towards right .

Also electric field is equal to -dV/dx= - ve of slope of V -x graph. Thus electric field will be in negative x direction(left) at x0

B.

Potential energy will decrease

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