Classical Mechanics (Kibble & Berkshire) · Problem 6.14

Orbits in a central field — T.W.B. Kibble, F.H. Berkshire

Physics — Mechanics · electrostatic-potential-energy

Problem

An earthed conducting sphere of radius aa is fixed in space, and a particle PP, of mass mm and charge qq, can move freely outside the sphere. Initially PP is a distance bb (>a> a) from the centre OO of the sphere when it is projected directly away from OO. What must the projection speed be for PP to escape to infinity? [Ignore electrodynamic effects. Use the method of images to solve the electrostatic problem.]

Related theory

Browse the problem library