Calculating electric field given velocity and magnetic field

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the electric field given an electron's velocity and a magnetic field, the relationship v = E/B is used. The magnetic field is directed into the page with a magnitude of 4.00 T, and the electron moves at 93 m/s along the x-axis. The correct electric field in the j direction is -372 N/C, as the electric force must oppose the magnetic force, which points in the +y direction. The discussion emphasizes the importance of determining the correct sign based on the right-hand rule. Understanding the direction of forces is crucial for accurate calculations in electromagnetism.
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Homework Statement



In the figure below, an electron moves at speed v = 93 m/s along an x-axis through uniform electric and magnetic fields. The magnetic field B is directed into the page and has magnitude 4.00 T. In unit vector notation, what is the electric field?

Figure: http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/233/webassign2.jpg/

Homework Equations



v=E/B

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that the answer is 0 for the i and k direction. I thought for the j direction, I just had to use the formula v=E/B, which would give me 372. But that's incorrect. I don't know what else to try.
 
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Have you tried -372 ?
 
That did it! Thanks.
 
RKOwens4 said:
That did it! Thanks.

Good. Usually when they don't specify a direction for the z-axis, you will need to try both + and - signs.
 
Note that getting the sign right isn't a matter of guessing. From the right-hand rule, you should be able to see that the magnetic force will point in the +y direction. To cancel it, the electric force must point in the -y direction.
 
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