Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology => Topic started by: The Scientist on 19/07/2010 12:44:57

Title: How fast are electrons?
Post by: The Scientist on 19/07/2010 12:44:57

Please elaborate upon explanation. Thanks.

Title: How fast are electrons?
Post by: syhprum on 19/07/2010 19:55:46

It all depends on the strength of the electrical field gradient that is causing them to move, Electrons flowing in a conductor move at a speed of a few meters per second but when they move in an CRT they move close to the speed of light. 

Title: How fast are electrons?
Post by: Pmb on 21/07/2010 07:32:49

Quote from: syhprum on 19/07/2010 19:55:46

It all depends on the strength of the electrical field gradient that is causing them to move, Electrons flowing in a conductor move at a speed of a few meters per second but when they move in an CRT they move close to the speed of light. 

Even more so. An electron can be accelerated in frame X and then maintain that velocity in that frame. The one can change their frame of reference to one which is moving parallel to x an with a faster speed. In that new frame the velocity is moving faster in that new frame.

Title: How fast are electrons?
Post by: syhprum on 21/07/2010 09:24:08

I find your post rather puzzling do you have a cyclotron in mind ?.