Charged particles moved into a B-field

In summary, two radioactive isotopes of singly charged plutonium (Pu-249 and Pu-244) are accelerated through a potential difference of 3 kV and enter a uniform magnetic field of 1.50T. By performing relevant calculations using the equation R=mv/qB, it is shown that the ratio of the path radii is independent of both the potential difference and the magnetic field. This is because the potential difference does not affect the velocity and the magnetic field does not affect the charge of the particles. Therefore, the ratio of the path radii remains constant regardless of changes in these factors.
  • #1
scrubber
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Homework Statement


Two radioactive isotopes of singly charged plutonium(Pu-249 and Pu-244) are accelerated through a potential difference of 3.00kW and enter a uniform magnetic field of 1.50T directed perpendicular to their velocities. By performing relevat calculations, show that the ratio of the path radii is independent of potential difference and magnetic field.
Given: an atomic mass unit = 1.66*10^-27kg

Homework Equations


R=mv/qB

The Attempt at a Solution


How can I start answering this question?
From the equation, both "v" and "B" are involved. So isn't it dependent?
 
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  • #2
A potential difference of 3 kV I hope ? I don't see this V appear in any of your relevant equations, so you need to find something..

What does that 3kV do to singly charged Pu-249 ? And to Pu-244 ?
You may assume they are at rest before being exposed to this potential difference.
 

FAQ: Charged particles moved into a B-field

How do charged particles move in a B-field?

Charged particles move in a B-field by following a curved path due to the interaction between their electric charge and the magnetic field. This path is perpendicular to both the direction of the magnetic field and the velocity of the particle.

What causes charged particles to move in a B-field?

The movement of charged particles in a B-field is caused by the Lorentz force, which is the result of the interaction between the magnetic field and the electric charge of the particle. This force causes the particle's direction of motion to change, resulting in a curved path.

Can the direction of a charged particle's motion be changed in a B-field?

Yes, the direction of a charged particle's motion can be changed in a B-field. The Lorentz force acting on the particle causes it to change direction and follow a curved path. Additionally, the strength and direction of the magnetic field can also affect the particle's path.

How does the speed of a charged particle affect its motion in a B-field?

The speed of a charged particle does not affect its motion in a B-field. The Lorentz force is dependent on the particle's charge and the strength of the magnetic field, not its speed. However, the speed of the particle can affect the radius of its curved path, with faster particles having a larger radius.

What are some applications of charged particles moving in a B-field?

Charged particles moving in a B-field have many applications in various fields of science and technology. Some examples include particle accelerators, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cathode ray tube (CRT) displays. Understanding the behavior of charged particles in a B-field is also essential for studying the Earth's magnetic field and the behavior of charged particles in space.

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