Point charge moving in a magnetic field question

In summary, a proton with a speed of 10^7 m/s enters a region of a uniform magnetic field B = .8 T, with an angle of 60º. The direction of the magnetic field is "into" the page. To solve for the angle 'fi' and distance d, you will need to find the force on the charge using the equation F = q V x B.
  • #1
Matt Jacques
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"A proton with a speed 10^7 m/s enters a region of a uniform magnetic field B = .8 T, which is into the page. The angle is 60º Find the angle 'fi' and distance d"

"which is into the page."

What the heck does that mean!?
 
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  • #2
The lines of magnetic force are conceived as running perpendicular to the page on which the diagram is drawn, and their direction is "into" rather than "out from" the page. So if everything in the plane diagram is referred to an x-y-coordinate system, the magnetic field will be directed along the z-axis.
 
  • #3
I had a hunch it meant that, but why didnt it say z directly...anyway, how do I go about solving it?
 
  • #4
Originally posted by Matt Jacques
... Find the angle 'fi' and distance d"
I don't understand the question. The angle and distance of what?

In any case, I'm sure you'll need to know how to find the force on that charge:

F = q V x B
 

FAQ: Point charge moving in a magnetic field question

1. How does a point charge move in a magnetic field?

When a point charge enters a magnetic field, it experiences a force perpendicular to both its velocity and the magnetic field. This force causes the charge to move in a circular or helical path, depending on the strength and direction of the magnetic field.

2. What is the equation for calculating the force on a point charge in a magnetic field?

The force on a point charge in a magnetic field can be calculated using the equation F = qvBsinθ, where q is the charge, v is the velocity, B is the magnetic field, and θ is the angle between the velocity and the magnetic field.

3. How does the strength of the magnetic field affect the motion of a point charge?

The strength of the magnetic field directly affects the magnitude of the force on the point charge. A stronger magnetic field will result in a larger force and therefore a more significant change in the motion of the charge.

4. What is the direction of the force on a point charge moving parallel to a magnetic field?

If a point charge is moving parallel to a magnetic field, the force on the charge will be zero. This is because the angle θ in the equation F = qvBsinθ will be equal to 0, resulting in a force of 0.

5. How can a point charge be deflected by a magnetic field?

A point charge can be deflected by a magnetic field by adjusting the strength or direction of the magnetic field. By changing the magnetic field, the force on the charge can be altered, causing it to deviate from its original path and be deflected in a new direction.

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