Behavior of charged particles in a speed selector

In summary, particles with velocities different from the ratio ##\frac{E}{B}## will experience a deflection upwards or downwards due to the forces acting on them. However, the behavior of these particles depends on the magnitude of both the electric and magnetic fields. By solving the equation of motion, it is possible to determine the time average speed and trajectory of the particles. In the case where ##v>\frac{E}{B}##, the electric force will be greater and the particle will be deflected upwards. Conversely, if ##v<\frac{E}{B}##, the electric force will be "win" and the particle will move downwards. The special case of v=E/B results in a line trajectory.
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greg_rack
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Considering the device above, which uses electric and magnetic fields placed properly to avoid charged moving particles with velocities different from the ratio ##\frac{E}{B}## to exit, getting deflected upwards or downwards. All that is easily demonstrable by equalling the forces acting on the particle: ##qE=qvB##.
Now, my question is: what happens to particles with ##v\neq \frac{E}{B}##?
What I found online if ##v>\frac{E}{B}## Lorentz's force will be greater(since it's proportional to speed) than the electric one, so the particle will get deflected upwards; otherwise, if ##v<\frac{E}{B}##, the electric force will "win" so the particle will move downwards... but this explanation doesn't satisfy me:
what if the electric field is much greater than the magnetic one, and even if ##v>\frac{E}{B}##, ##E>vB## and vice-versa?
Shouldn't we know the magnitude of both fields to predict the behavior of particles with ##v\neq \frac{E}{B}##?
 
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  • #2
If v > E/B, then E is less than vB. It cannot then be greater than vB.
 
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Hello.
Lorentz force including electric field makes the charged particle move as
[tex]\mathbf{F}=q(\mathbf{E}+\mathbf{v} \times \mathbf{B})=\frac{d \mathbf{p}}{dt}[/tex]
we should solve this equation of motion to know its motion. By solving the equation we know its velocity is cyclic in time with drifting speed of ##\frac{E}{B}## in time average. The trajectories are trochoids.

So your first v=E/B case is the special setting that this time average speed is an actual speed and the trajectory is a line.
 
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Vanadium 50 said:
If v > E/B, then E is less than vB. It cannot then be greater than vB.
Right, that's what I was missing... thanks for the hint!
 

1. How does a speed selector work?

A speed selector is a device that uses electric and magnetic fields to control the speed of charged particles. The particles are first accelerated by an electric field, and then their path is curved by a magnetic field. The particles with the desired speed will follow a specific path and can be separated from those with different speeds.

2. What is the purpose of a speed selector?

A speed selector is used to separate particles with different speeds, allowing for the isolation and study of specific particles. It is commonly used in particle accelerators and mass spectrometers.

3. How do electric and magnetic fields affect charged particles in a speed selector?

Electric fields accelerate charged particles, while magnetic fields deflect their path. By controlling the strength and direction of these fields, the speed selector can manipulate the trajectory of charged particles and select those with the desired speed.

4. Can a speed selector be used to manipulate the charge of particles?

No, a speed selector only affects the speed of charged particles, not their charge. The charge of a particle is determined by its fundamental properties and cannot be altered by a speed selector.

5. What factors affect the performance of a speed selector?

The performance of a speed selector can be affected by the strength and direction of the electric and magnetic fields, the properties of the charged particles, and any external disturbances such as temperature or pressure. Additionally, the design and construction of the speed selector can also impact its performance.

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