Finding Magnetic Field: A Circular Path Challenge

In summary: It's just something that happens. Without understanding the theory behind it, it's really hard to understand why things work the way they do. In summary, the magnetic field exerts a force on the particle that keeps it in a circular path. The force is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the particle and the center of the field.
  • #1
lettertwelve
54
0

Homework Statement



A singly charged positive ion with a mass of 6.68 x 10^-27 kg moves clockwise with a speed of 1.10 x 10^4 m/s in a circular path with a radius of 2.00 cm. Find the direction and strength of the magnetic field. (Hint: The magnetic force exerted on the ion is the force that maintains circular motion, and the speed of the ion given is its tangential speed.)

_____ T


Homework Equations



F = ma and since the particle travels in a circle, F = mv² / r which is the magnitude of the magnetic field.


The Attempt at a Solution



F = 6.68•10^-27 kg•(1.10•10^4 m/s)² / 0.2m

but the answer is wrong.
why?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
What is the formula for finding the force exerted by a magnetic field on a charged particle?
When you find that formula, that provides the centripetal force to keep it in a circle.
 
  • #3
rock.freak667 said:
What is the formula for finding the force exerted by a magnetic field on a charged particle?
When you find that formula, that provides the centripetal force to keep it in a circle.

. . . i obviously have no idea ?
 
  • #4
force exerted by a magnetic field on a charged particle?= BQv

B=magnetic flux density
Q=charge of particle
v=velocity of particle.
 
  • #5
Lol maybe you should've done a bit more research, at least to figure out the needed formulas. Wikipedia is often a good source.
F=ma...How would you go about finding the Acceleration? Are you finding the Accel of the Ion? And if so, does it even HAVE an acceleration?
 
Last edited:
  • #6
yes it does have an acceleration...but perpendicular to the velocity =)
 
  • #7
Perpendicular? I don't even know how that happens. Does "Perpendicular to the Velocity" just mean the object is turning? How does Accel go about being perpendicular to Velocity? try to give an example? Because I assumed that the object maintained the same speed (1.10 x 10^4 m/s), in which case the acceleration would be 0.
 
  • #8
KalvinDeathX said:
Perpendicular? I don't even know how that happens. Does "Perpendicular to the Velocity" just mean the object is turning? How does Accel go about being perpendicular to Velocity? try to give an example? Because I assumed that the object maintained the same speed (1.10 x 10^4 m/s), in which case the acceleration would be 0.

The centripetal force causes the acceleration to be inward towards the center of the circle. He's right that the instantaneous velocity is tangential to the acceleration.

Anyway, you don't need to find the acceleration. Couple the formula that you know with rock.freak667's formula.
 
  • #9
yeah, I was going to say that the other formula makes more sense.
So much about Physics seems arbitrary right now. Like, gravity. There's no real reason why 2 masses attract one another.
 
Last edited:

FAQ: Finding Magnetic Field: A Circular Path Challenge

What is a circular path challenge?

A circular path challenge is a scientific experiment or activity that involves finding the magnetic field along a circular path. It is often used as a way to demonstrate the principles of electromagnetism and to measure the strength and direction of a magnetic field.

How do you conduct a circular path challenge?

To conduct a circular path challenge, you will need a compass, a battery, and a wire. Connect one end of the wire to the positive terminal of the battery and the other end to the negative terminal. Place the compass near the wire and move it along a circular path around the wire. The needle of the compass will point in the direction of the magnetic field lines.

What is the purpose of a circular path challenge?

The purpose of a circular path challenge is to understand and measure the magnetic field around a wire. It also helps to demonstrate the right-hand rule, which shows the relationship between the direction of the current flow and the direction of the magnetic field.

What factors affect the strength of the magnetic field in a circular path challenge?

The strength of the magnetic field in a circular path challenge can be affected by the current flowing through the wire, the distance from the wire, and the number of turns in the wire. The type of material used for the wire can also impact the strength of the magnetic field.

What are the real-life applications of a circular path challenge?

A circular path challenge has many real-life applications, such as in the design of electric motors, generators, and transformers. It is also useful in studying and understanding the Earth's magnetic field, which is essential for navigation and compass use.

Similar threads

The acceleration of protons using a changing magnetic field
Replies
6
Views
2K
Charged particle moving in circular path in a magnetic field
Replies
7
Views
1K
Ion moving through electric potential difference and magnetic field
Replies
8
Views
964
Does a Bent Wire Affect Induction Calculations?
Replies
7
Views
1K
Find the equation of this magnetic field
Replies
6
Views
1K
Spring-mediated dipole in a magnetic field
Replies
31
Views
2K
Particle in a circular path due to magnetic field
Replies
21
Views
2K
(Magnetism) Magnetic pull force on a steel ball
Replies
4
Views
1K
Motion of a Charged Particle in Magnetic Field
Replies
2
Views
2K
Magnetic field due to a straight wire and circular arc
Replies
20
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top