Particle 1 has a mass of m₁ = 3.6 x 10^-6 kg, while particle 2 has a mass of m₂ =  6.2 x 10^-6 kg. Each has the same electric charge. These particles are initially held at rest, and the two-particle system has an initial electric potential energy of 0.150 J. Suddenly, the particles are released and fly apart because of the repulsive electric force that acts on each one (see the figure). The effects of the gravitational force are negligible, and no other forces act on the particles. Concepts: (i) What types of energy does the two-particle system have initially? (ii) What types of energy does the two-particle system have at the instant illustrated in part b of the drawing? (iii) Does the principle of conservation of energy apply to this problem? Explain. (iv) Does the conservation of linear momentum apply to the two particles as they fly apart? Explain. Calculations: At one instant following the release, the speed of particle 1 is measured to be v1 = 170 m/s. What is the electric potential energy at this instant?

Two particles have different masses, but the same electrical charge q. They are initially at rest.
At the instant following the release of the particles, they are flying apart due to the mutual force of electric repulsion.

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(a) Initial (at rest) U2F "1 m2 (b) Final