. Define electron volt (eV). Derive its relation with SI unit of energy?
Question
. Define electron volt (eV). Derive its relation with SI unit of energy?
Solution
- Definition of Electron Volt (eV):
An electron volt (eV) is a unit of energy that is particularly convenient in atomic and nuclear physics, as well as in particle physics. It is defined as the amount of kinetic energy gained by a single electron when it is accelerated from rest through an electric potential difference of one volt.
- Derivation of its relation with SI unit of energy (Joule):
The energy E gained by an electron in moving through a potential difference V is given by the equation:
E = qV
where q is the charge of the electron.
The charge of an electron is approximately 1.602 x 10^-19 coulombs.
Therefore, if we substitute this value into the equation and consider a potential difference of 1 volt, we get:
E = (1.602 x 10^-19 C) x (1 V) = 1.602 x 10^-19 joules
So, 1 electron volt (eV) is equivalent to 1.602 x 10^-19 joules (J). This is the relation of eV with the SI unit of energy.
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