A positively charged particle enters a magnetic field oriented perpendicular to its direction of motion. Does the particle: A) Change its velocity, B) Change its speed, C) Accelerate in the direction of the magnetic field.

To answer this question you must use the magnetic field "Right Hand Rule". We know that if a charged particle enters a magnetic field it will experience a force ​perpendicular to both​ the magnetic field and its direction of motion.From this result we know that the particle experiences no force along its direction of motion thus no work is done on the particle by the magnetic field. This means that B is ​False​ since the kinetic energy of the particle can not change. This also shows that C is False​ since the field exerts a "Central Force" on the moving particle causing it to enter a circular trajectory.By elimination then, A is ​True​. Though the speed of the particle does not change, the direction does as the particle begins circular motion. Since the velocity depends on both the speed and the direction of motion of an object we see that the magnetic field must be causing a change in velocity of the particle.

SH
Answered by Sam H. Physics tutor

15561 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Derive an expression for the time taken, (t) for a test mass to fall to the ground from a height (h) in a uniform gravitational field (g = 9.81 ms^-2)


Why does gravitational potential energy have a negative value?


Alex's rocket lands after 4.56s and Billy's lands after 5.21s. What was the initial (maximum) vertical velocity of both of their rockets as they left the launchpad to 3s.f.?


How do I find the x and y components of a vector?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning