What is the mass of the charged balls in a magnetic field with given parameters?

In summary, two identical small balls with charges of 100 and -100 nC respectively hang in a 100,000 V/m electric field. The string length is 50cm and the angle each makes with the vertical is 10 degrees. In order to find the mass of the balls, the equations F = Eq, F = k|q1||q2|/r^2, and F = mg are used, with the value of k being 9 x 10^9 Nm^2/C^2. By evaluating the equations with the given values of a = 10, g = 9.8, E = 100,000, k = 9 x 10^9, and q
  • #1
theneedtoknow
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2 identical small balls hang in a 100, 000 N/C electric field as shown. They have charges of 100 and -100 nC respectively. The string length is 50cm and the angle each makes with the vertical is 10 degrees. Find the mass of the balls.

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/633/phees.th.jpg


Homework Equations



F = Eq , F = k|q1||q2|/r^2, F = mg
k = 9 x 10^9 Nm^2/C^2

The Attempt at a Solution



For the left ball :

Fx = Tsina - Eq - kq^2/(sina^2) = 0
T = (Eq + kq^2/sina^2)/ sina

Fy = Tcosa - mg = 0
m = Tcosa / g

m =(cosa/g) * (Eq + kq^2/sina^2) / sina

but when i evaluate this with a = 10 , g = 9.8, E = 100 000, k = 9x10^9, q = 1 x 10^7
i get m = 7.5 grams

the answer in the back of the book is 4.1 grams

where am i going wrong?
 
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  • #2
First of all, its not a magnetic field. Looks like a uniform E-field of 100,000 V/m.

And it makes a difference.

Left to themselves the + and - charges on the balls would be attractive, not repulsive. Hence the m*g AND the attractive forces between the balls are being balanced by the attraction of the balls toward their respective potentials.
 
  • #3
ohhhhhhhh that's right , thank you!
 

1. How does a magnetic field affect the motion of a ball?

A magnetic field can exert a force on a charged ball, causing it to move in a circular motion around the field lines. The direction of the motion is dependent on the direction of the magnetic field and the charge of the ball.

2. What is the relationship between the strength of a magnetic field and the motion of a ball?

The strength of the magnetic field directly affects the amount of force exerted on a ball. A stronger magnetic field will result in a tighter and faster circular motion, while a weaker field will result in a looser and slower motion.

3. Can a ball's motion be controlled by changing the magnetic field?

Yes, the direction and strength of the magnetic field can be manipulated to control the motion of a ball. By changing the field, the ball's path and speed can be altered.

4. How does the shape of a magnetic field affect the motion of a ball?

The shape of a magnetic field can determine the path and speed of a ball. A uniform, straight field will result in a constant circular motion, while a curved or distorted field can cause the ball to accelerate or decelerate.

5. Are there any real-world applications of balls in a magnetic field?

Yes, there are many real-world applications of this phenomenon, such as particle accelerators and mass spectrometers. These devices use magnetic fields to manipulate and control the motion of charged particles, including balls, for scientific research and industrial purposes.

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