Calculating Magnetic Force: Equations for Moving Charges at Right Angles

Ok, so the correct equation to use is F = qvBsin(theta) where theta is the angle between the velocity and the magnetic field. In this case, theta = 55 degrees, so the magnetic force would be:F = (53x10^-6C)(1300m/s)(550T)sin(55) = 32.4 NIn summary, the strength of the magnetic field is 1.37 T. To find the magnetic force exerted on a charge moving at an angle to the same magnetic field, the equation F = qvBsin(theta) should be used, where theta is the angle between the velocity and the magnetic field.
  • #1
camel-man
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A 3.60 mC charge moving at 862 m/s travels at right angles to a magnetic field, and experiences a .00425 N magnetic force.

Find the strength of the magnetic field.

F = qvB (not sure if the right angle makes a difference in the equation.)

B= .00425 /(3.60x10^-6)(862) = 1.37 T

A 53.0 mC charge is now moving at 1300 m/s and 550 to the same magnetic field.

Find the magnetic force exerted on the second charge.

F = (53x10^-6C) (1300m/s)(550T) = 37.8 N

Does this look correct? Also, I am wondering what if the angle was not a right angle? how would that differ the equation I would use..
 
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  • #2
F = qvB is true for a right angle between motion and magnetic field only, otherwise you need the cross-product of velocity and magnetic field.

A 53.0 mC charge is now moving at 1300 m/s and 550 to the same magnetic field.
And 550 what? Is that an angle? 55°?
F = (53x10^-6C) (1300m/s)(550T) = 37.8 N
The problem statement said you should use the magnetic field from the first subquestion. And 550T is not a reasonable field strength.
 
  • #3
Ahh yes I'm sorry I copy and pasted it over and didn't realize it put a zero. It is 55 degrees. yes.
 

FAQ: Calculating Magnetic Force: Equations for Moving Charges at Right Angles

What is a magnetic field?

A magnetic field is an invisible force that is created by moving electric charges. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

How is a magnetic field measured?

A magnetic field is measured using a device called a magnetometer. This device can detect the strength and direction of a magnetic field.

What units are used to measure magnetic fields?

Magnetic fields are measured in units called teslas (T) or gauss (G). One tesla is equal to 10,000 gauss.

What are the applications of magnetic fields?

Magnetic fields have many practical applications, such as in generators, electric motors, MRI machines, and compasses. They are also used for data storage in devices like hard drives and credit cards.

How can magnetic fields be shielded or controlled?

Magnetic fields can be shielded or controlled using materials that are not affected by magnetic fields, such as mu-metal or superconductors. They can also be manipulated using electric currents or by adjusting the distance between a magnet and the object affected by the field.

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