Combination of electric and magnetic fields

In summary, the conversation discusses the problem of finding the y component of the magnetic field in a scenario where an electron is moving in uniform electric and magnetic fields. The individual contributions of the electric and magnetic fields to the net acceleration of the electron are calculated, and it is determined that the magnetic force is causing the electron to accelerate in the negative z direction. However, when using the Lorentz force equation, the calculated magnetic field in the y direction is incorrect. Further discussion ensues, but the correct answer is not found.
  • #1
bemigh
30
0
Hey, i have this question to solve..
An electron has a velocity of 1.62×104 m/s (in the positive x direction) and an acceleration of 2.25×1012 m/s2 (in the positive z direction) in uniform electric and magnetic fields. If the electric field has a magnitude of 19.1 N/C (in the positive z direction), what is the y component of the magnetic field in the region?

Ok, so..
The electric field is in the direction of the acceleration, so i solved for the theoretical acceleration caused by the electric field, which turned out to be 3.35x10^12 m/s^1. This is MORE than the actual acceleration, therefore, the magnetic force must be causing the electron to accelerate 1.10x10^12 m/s^2 in the negative z direction. Using this acceleration and mass of the electron, the magnetic force is 1.00625e-18, and using F=qv X B, i found the magnetic field in the Y direction to be 3.88x10^-4 T, which is ultimately wrong...
where did i go wrong?
Cheers
Brent
 
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  • #2
which turned out to be 3.35x10^12 m/s^1. This is MORE than the actual acceleration, therefore, the magnetic force must be causing the electron to accelerate 1.10x10^12 m/s^2 in the negative z direction

Remember, that 2.25 X 10^12 is the net accelaration due to electric and magnetic field. Accelaration due to the electric field is in the -z direction and is = 3.35x10^12 m/s^1. So accelaration caused by the magnetic field should be (2.25 X 10^12 +3.35x10^12) m/s^1 in the +z direction. If you use the lorentz force equation, there is no chance of making a mistake in directions.


Start from the lorentz Equation.

[tex] F= ma \vec z = -eE\vec z -e (vXB)[/tex]



[tex] ev (\vec x X B) = (-eE - ma)\vec z[/tex]

[tex] B_y = \frac{-eE - ma}{ev}[/tex]
 
  • #3
still problems

Hey,
using the larentz equation, i got an answer of 7.89 x 10^-4 T, which is still wrong... any ideas?
Cheers
 
  • #4
How did you come up with this number? Could you post the answer?

Substituting in the formula that I got earlier, By= -1.97 X 10^-3 T.
 

FAQ: Combination of electric and magnetic fields

What is the combination of electric and magnetic fields?

The combination of electric and magnetic fields, also known as electromagnetic fields, is a phenomenon in which electric and magnetic fields are inseparably linked and influence each other. This results in the propagation of electromagnetic waves, such as light and radio waves.

How are electric and magnetic fields related?

Electric and magnetic fields are related through Maxwell's equations, which describe the fundamental laws of electromagnetism. These equations show that a changing electric field creates a magnetic field, and a changing magnetic field creates an electric field.

What are the applications of the combination of electric and magnetic fields?

The combination of electric and magnetic fields has numerous applications in everyday life, including electricity generation, wireless communication, and medical imaging. It also plays a crucial role in the functioning of electronic devices like computers and smartphones.

How do electric and magnetic fields interact with matter?

Electric and magnetic fields can interact with matter in different ways. Electric fields can cause charged particles to move, while magnetic fields can deflect moving charged particles. The strength and direction of these fields can also affect the properties of materials, such as their conductivity and permeability.

What are the potential health effects of the combination of electric and magnetic fields?

The potential health effects of the combination of electric and magnetic fields are a subject of ongoing research and debate. While there is evidence that extremely high levels of exposure can have harmful effects, there is currently no conclusive evidence that everyday exposure to electromagnetic fields poses significant health risks.

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