Decaying particle in uniform magnetic field; what was the rest mass?

In summary, an unstable particle at rest decays into a proton and negative pion in a uniform magnetic field. The radius of curvature of each track is 1.33 m. To find the rest mass of the original particle, one can start by using the radius of curvature to find the speed or momentum.
  • #1
Jerros
1
0
Homework Statement

An unstable particle, initially at rest, decays into a pro-
ton (rest energy 938.3 MeV) and a negative pion (rest
energy 139.5 MeV). A uniform magnetic field of
0.250 T exists perpendicular to the velocities of the cre-
ated particles. The radius of curvature of each track is
found to be 1.33 m. What is the rest mass of the origi-
nal unstable particle?

The attempt at a solution

Wouldn't know where to start on this one...
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi Jerros! Welcome to PF! :smile:
Jerros said:
Wouldn't know where to start on this one...

Start by using the radius of curvature to find the speed. :wink:
 
  • #3
Or, better yet, the momentum.
 

What is a decaying particle?

A decaying particle is a subatomic particle that undergoes a transformation into one or more other particles. This process is known as particle decay.

What is a uniform magnetic field?

A uniform magnetic field is a magnetic field that has the same strength and direction at every point in a given region.

How does a uniform magnetic field affect a decaying particle?

A uniform magnetic field can cause a decaying particle to change its trajectory due to the Lorentz force. This force acts perpendicular to both the direction of motion and the direction of the magnetic field, resulting in a curved path for the particle.

What is rest mass?

Rest mass is the mass of an object when it is at rest, meaning it is not moving. It is a fundamental property of particles and is often denoted by the symbol "m0".

How is the rest mass of a decaying particle determined?

The rest mass of a decaying particle can be determined through various experimental techniques, such as measuring its momentum and energy. It can also be calculated using equations from special relativity, which take into account the particle's mass, velocity, and energy.

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