Final answer:
The speed of a proton accelerated through a 116 V potential difference is approximately 3.38 x 10^7 m/s. This is determined by equating kinetic energy gained in the acceleration process, considering the proton's charge and mass, showcasing the conversion of electric potential energy to kinetic energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The speed of a proton accelerated from rest through an electric potential difference of 116 V can be determined by considering the gained kinetic energy. This energy is a result of the charge of the proton (1.6 x 10^(-19) C) being accelerated through the given potential difference. The formula for kinetic energy equated to the electric potential energy yields the speed of the proton. Substituting the known values, including the proton's mass (1.66 x 10^(-27) kg), the calculated speed is approximately 3.38 x 10^7 m/s. This process involves understanding the conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy in the context of the electric potential difference, providing insight into the proton's resulting velocity after acceleration.