An electron enters a magnetic field

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on solving a physics problem involving an electron entering a magnetic field. The original poster (OP) attempts to relate kinetic energy and centripetal force to derive equations for the radius of the electron's path. Responses indicate that the OP's approach is generally correct, but suggest showing more detailed workings to identify potential mistakes. Additionally, it is noted that finding velocity is unnecessary for the second part of the problem, as kinetic energy can be directly related to force and radius. Overall, the conversation emphasizes clarity in problem-solving steps and the relationships between physical concepts.
Dominic90
Messages
3
Reaction score
4
Homework Statement
An electron, accelerated from rest by a potential difference ∆V, enters a magnetic field B, perpendicular to the lines of force. The electron therefore travels a circular trajectory of radius r. If ∆V is doubled and B halved, what will be the radius R, as a function of r, of the new trajectory?

The same electron is now in uniform circular motion of radius 26.1 𝜇𝑚 subject to a field uniform magnetic. The magnetic force acting on it has an intensity of 1.60 ∙ 10^(−17)𝑁.

Calculate the kinetic energy of the electron.
Relevant Equations
K = (1/2) mv²
E = q ∆V
r = m v / (|q|B)
F = |q|vB
Centripetal force = mv²/r
Hi, I tried to solve this exercise but I'm not sure about the process.

First of all, I imposed that "K = E":

so that "v = √ ( (2q ∆V)/m))"

then I replaced in "r = m v / (| q |B)", v with "√ ( (2q ∆V)/m))", and found out that R = (2√(2)) r.

Then for the second point,

I imposed Lorenz Force Law = Centripetal force and isolated v.

Then I substituted v in K
and obtained that "K= (1/2 ) F r".

Is this correct?
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes Delta2 and hutchphd
Physics news on Phys.org
Title: “An electron enters a magnetic field”

Ah, I was expecting a joke.
 
  • Like
Likes 2milehi, Dominic90 and hmmm27
+
Except the joke would have to start something like "an electron, a neutrino, and a muon enter a magnetic Field..."
By the way the OP looks good to me.
 
  • Like
Likes Steve4Physics and Dominic90
Steve4Physics said:
Title: “An electron enters a magnetic field”

Ah, I was expecting a joke.
... then charged out again. It wasn't very attractive and kept giving it the runaround.
 
  • Like
Likes Steve4Physics, Dominic90 and hutchphd
@Dominic90, I also agree with your answers. (And sorry about Post #2.)

As a general point, maybe it helps to show the working, rather than just describe the 'process'. (This makes it easier to identify the source of mistakes, if there are any.)

For the second question, there is no need find v first. Note that K = ½mv² and F = mv²/r. You can easily combine these to show that K = ½Fr.
 
  • Like
Likes Dominic90 and hutchphd
Steve4Physics said:
Title: “An electron enters a magnetic field”

Ah, I was expecting a joke.
I was expecting something about grammar since this isn't my first language, but then I cracked up xD
 
  • Like
Likes Steve4Physics
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'
TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'
The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
Back
Top