Betatron, Electron accerating at a constant radius

In summary, an electron undergoing cyclotron motion in a transverse magnetic field can be accelerated by ramping the B field in time. The kinetic energy of the electron increases due to the induction of an electric field when the magnetic field changes. Using the equation B(r0,t)= 1/(2πr02)∫B(r,t) da, one can prove that the radius of the orbit remains constant in time by showing that dr0/dt = 0.
  • #1
forceface
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0

Homework Statement


An electron with speed v, undergoing cyclotron motion in a transverse magnetic field B(r) at cyclotron radius r0, given r0 = mv/[eB(r0)], can be accelerated by ramping the B field in time.
(a) Since magnetic fields do no work,what is increasing thwe kinetic energy of the electron?
(b) Show that if the magnetic field at r0 is half of the average across the orbit,
B(r0,t)= 1/(2πr02)∫B(r,t) da
then the radius r0 of the orbit must be constant in time. Assume nonrelativistic speeds

1. The attempt at a solution
(a) This is the easy part, since the magnetic field is changing in time an electric field is induced and that is what is increasing the kinetic energy of the electron.
(b) I have worked out why the given equation is true but I would rather not write the whole thing out. So given this equation how do I prove that the radius is constant in time?
 
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  • #2
I haven't tried working this out, but I'll suggest you could try to show that ##dr_0/dt = 0##.
 
  • #3
When I try your suggestions I come up with B dv/dt = dB/dt v. But I am still not sure how this along with the intergral identity helps show what I want.
 

1. What is a betatron?

A betatron is a type of circular particle accelerator used to accelerate electrons to high energies. It consists of a donut-shaped vacuum chamber surrounded by a series of electromagnets that produce a strong magnetic field.

2. How does a betatron work?

A betatron works by using the magnetic field produced by the electromagnets to accelerate electrons in a circular path. As the electrons pass through the magnetic field, they experience a force that causes them to gain energy and increase in speed. This process is repeated multiple times until the desired energy is achieved.

3. What is the purpose of accelerating electrons at a constant radius?

The purpose of accelerating electrons at a constant radius is to maintain a constant energy level for the particles. This is important for many experiments and applications, as it allows for consistent and accurate results. It also helps to reduce the complexity and cost of the accelerator design.

4. What are the advantages of using a betatron over other types of particle accelerators?

One of the main advantages of a betatron is its compact size. It can achieve high energies in a relatively small space compared to other types of accelerators. It also does not require a high-voltage power supply, making it more cost-effective. Additionally, the circular path of the particles in a betatron reduces the chances of beam loss, making it more efficient.

5. What are some common applications of betatrons?

Betatrons have a wide range of applications in both scientific research and industry. They are commonly used in medical facilities for cancer treatment, as well as in materials science for studying the properties of materials at high energies. They are also used in nuclear physics research and to generate X-rays for medical imaging and industrial inspection.

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