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

15225 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

The friction coefficient of Formula 1 car tyres are around 1.7 in dry weather. Assuming sufficient power from the engine, calculate the theoretical best 0-100 km/h acceleration time in seconds. (neglect downforce, g=9.81m/s^2)


What is a vector quantity


If two cars are moving, labelled car A and car B. Car A moves at 15 m/s and B at 10 m/s but car B also accelerated at 2 m/s/s. If the two both travel for ten seconds, which car will travel further?


What is the difference between internal energy, temperature, and heat?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences