Velocity Selectors: Why Opposite Direction?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of electrons in a velocity selector, specifically addressing the forces acting on fast and slow electrons and their resultant directions of motion. The scope includes conceptual understanding and technical explanations related to the Lorentz force law and the role of electric and magnetic fields in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that fast electrons experience a larger force from the magnetic field, while slower electrons experience a smaller force, leading to a question about their movement in opposite directions.
  • One participant requests clarification on what is meant by "opposite directions" and suggests using the Lorentz force law for further understanding.
  • Another participant shares an image of a section of the velocity selector, indicating a visual aid to support the discussion.
  • There is a humorous acknowledgment of the difficulty in visualizing electrons due to their small size.
  • It is noted that the velocity selector also incorporates an electric field, which may influence the motion of the electrons.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion remains unresolved, with participants expressing different levels of understanding and seeking clarification on the directional behavior of electrons in the velocity selector.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the implications of the electric field in conjunction with the magnetic field, and there may be missing assumptions regarding the conditions under which the electrons are analyzed.

v_pino
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I understand that fast electrons will experience a larger force from the magnetic field and slower electrons will experience a smaller force. But how come they will move in opposite directions?
 
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v_pino said:
I understand that fast electrons will experience a larger force from the magnetic field and slower electrons will experience a smaller force. But how come they will move in opposite directions?

What "opposite directions"? Please show where you got this. Use the Lorentz force law.

Zz.
 
here is the image of a section of the velocity selector

thanks
 
v_pino said:
here is the image of a section of the velocity selector

thanks

I guess this makes sense, because an electron is too small to see with the naked eye.

{ZapperZ smacks himself silly}

Zz.
 
LOL :smile:
 
v_pino said:
I understand that fast electrons will experience a larger force from the magnetic field and slower electrons will experience a smaller force. But how come they will move in opposite directions?
The velocity selector also has an electric field.
 

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