Charged Particles Moving in a Magnetic Field Ranking Task

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves five equal-mass charged particles (labeled A–E) moving through a uniform magnetic field directed into the page. Participants are tasked with ranking these particles based on their trajectories, but there appears to be confusion regarding the nature of the particles and the implications of their charges.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • One participant attempts to use the formula v=qBr/m to derive a ranking but expresses uncertainty about the validity of their conclusion, citing a contradiction regarding the mass of the particles. Others question the specifics of the ranking criteria and the nature of the charges involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have expressed that the problem may not be solvable as stated, while others are seeking clarification on the ranking criteria and the characteristics of the particles.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted ambiguity regarding the mass and charge of the particles, particularly the distinction between electrons and protons, which may affect the ranking. Participants are also questioning the assumptions made about the particles' charges and velocities.

seto6
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Homework Statement


Five equal-mass particles (A–E) enter a region of uniform magnetic field directed into the page. They follow the trajectories illustrated in the figure.

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Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


i used the formula v=qBr/m
got the following "A,B,C=E,D" apparently this is wrong i do not know why..i find this question contradicting because it says at first "Five equal-mass particles" but the five masses are not the same because the electron is A and proton are the rest. could someone help me
 
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got it . it is not solvable
 
What do you want to rank the particles upon?
 
Last edited:
A charged particle doesn't have to be either an electron or a proton. You can have two particles with equal mass, same magnitude of charge, but different sign of charge, like an electron and a positron (Same mass as an electron, but +e charge)

Or you could be discussing macroscopic particles for that matter, onto which you can impart any charge you'd like.

By the way, what is the question here? What are the charge signs and relative velocities of all the particles?
 

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