Why is electromagnetic force perpendicular to magnetic field?

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between FM, qV, and B sin\theta and how it can determine the force magnitude. The question is raised about why the electromagnetic force is perpendicular to B, and how the right-hand rule can help explain this. The conversation concludes with the understanding that these concepts are simply natural phenomena and cannot be explained further.
  • #1
dorian_gray
2
0
so, i was told FM= qV + B sin[tex]\theta[/tex], where [tex]\theta[/tex]=90 in order to get the full magnitude of the force
but why is the electromagnetic force perpendicular to B?
also, looking upon the right hand rule, if the positive charge is heading towards you, and subsequently the magnetic field is then heading to left of you, the electromagnetic force then heads down; why is that?
perhaps this is a bit of a simplistic question for some, but I am very new to the field of physics and would very much like to understand the concept of electromagnetism
 
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  • #2
I classify this question in the same category as the question "Why do masses attract and not repel?" THe answer to both is "Because that's how Nature works". In other words, it is equivalent to the question "Why does Nature work this way and not differently?"
 

1. Why is the electromagnetic force perpendicular to the magnetic field?

The electromagnetic force is perpendicular to the magnetic field because of the way electric and magnetic fields interact with each other. When an electric charge moves through a magnetic field, it experiences a force that is perpendicular to both the direction of the charge's motion and the direction of the magnetic field. This is known as the Lorentz force and is responsible for the perpendicular relationship between the electromagnetic force and the magnetic field.

2. How does the interaction between electric and magnetic fields create a perpendicular force?

The interaction between electric and magnetic fields occurs because an electric field is generated by the presence of an electric charge, and a magnetic field is generated by the motion of an electric charge. When these two fields intersect, they create a force that is perpendicular to both the direction of the charge's motion and the direction of the magnetic field. This is known as the Lorentz force and is responsible for the perpendicular relationship between the electromagnetic force and the magnetic field.

3. Can you provide an example of the perpendicular relationship between electromagnetic force and magnetic field?

One example of the perpendicular relationship between electromagnetic force and magnetic field is the motion of a charged particle through a magnetic field. As the particle moves, it experiences a force that is perpendicular to both its direction of motion and the direction of the magnetic field. This force causes the particle to move in a circular path, known as cyclotron motion, which is a result of the perpendicular relationship between the two forces.

4. Why is it important to understand the perpendicular relationship between electromagnetic force and magnetic field?

Understanding the perpendicular relationship between electromagnetic force and magnetic field is crucial in many areas of science and technology. It is the foundation of electromagnetism and is essential for understanding the behavior of charged particles, such as electrons, in electric and magnetic fields. This knowledge is also vital in the development of technologies such as electric motors, generators, and particle accelerators.

5. Is the perpendicular relationship between electromagnetic force and magnetic field always present?

Yes, the perpendicular relationship between electromagnetic force and magnetic field is always present. It is a fundamental aspect of electromagnetism and is present whenever there is an electric charge moving through a magnetic field. This relationship is essential for the proper functioning of many devices and technologies, and it is a constant force that operates in our everyday lives.

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