Can a massive particle follow a straight path in a non-uniform electric field?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether a massive particle can follow a straight path in a non-uniform electric field. It explores various scenarios involving both neutral and charged particles, as well as the implications of different types of electric fields.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the possibility of a massive particle taking a rectilinear path in a non-uniform electric field.
  • Another participant suggests that a neutral particle, such as an atom or a neutron, can follow a straight path, and mentions that there are other possibilities for charged particles.
  • A subsequent reply inquires specifically about the feasibility of this for charged particles.
  • It is proposed that if the trajectory aligns with the electric field, such as in the case of the electric field around a charged sphere, a straight path is possible, although this may be less certain for other configurations.
  • One participant notes that the nature of the non-uniform electric field is crucial; if the field has a non-zero curl, a straight path is likely not achievable.
  • Another participant expresses agreement with the previous point regarding the charged sphere electric field allowing rectilinear motion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the conditions under which a massive particle can follow a straight path in a non-uniform electric field, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on the specific characteristics of the non-uniform electric field, including the presence of curl and the configuration of the field lines.

shakeel
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is this possible for a masive particle to take retilinier path in a non uniform electric field
 
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Yes. Easiest solution: take a neutral particle as an atom or a neutron, but there are others, even with charged particles.
 
so simple. thanks. but is this possible with charge particle?
 
You can tell I cheating, but yes, if you take as trajectory a straight line of field. This is the case for the electric field around a charged sphere. Or a little less true for a point placed at high potential. This is how the "atom microscope" works.
 
This depends a bit on what sort of nonuniform electric field you're talking about. If the field has a non-zero curl, then most likely not. But as Lpfr said, the charged sphere electric field allows rectilinear motion, as do many others.
 
Ya I agree with Arunma.
 

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