Cyclotron magnetic field questions

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the physics of cyclotrons, specifically focusing on the acceleration of H− ions to energies between 5 MeV and 20 MeV within a magnetic field of 2.3 T. Participants are exploring the calculations related to the speed of the H− ion and the radius of its circular orbit based on its kinetic energy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are considering using kinetic energy equations to find the speed of the H− ion and applying the Lorentz force equation to determine the radius of its orbit. There is a question about the correctness of their approach and whether relativistic effects need to be considered.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed their understanding of the approach, while others express uncertainty about the correctness of their methods. Guidance has been provided regarding the need to check the calculated velocity against the speed of light to determine if relativistic corrections are necessary.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes that they have not yet learned about relativity, which may influence their calculations and understanding of the problem.

meaghan
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Homework Statement


Cyclotrons are widely used in nuclear medicine for producing short-lived radioactive isotopes. These cyclotrons typically accelerate H− (the hydrideion, which has one proton and two electrons) to an energy of 5MeV to 20MeV. This ion has a mass very close to that of a proton because the electron mass is negligible−about 1/2000 of the proton’s mass. A typical magnetic field in such cyclotrons is 2.3 T

A)What is the speed of a 5.0-MeV H−?

B)If the H− has energy 5.0MeV and B= 2.3 T , what is the radius of this ion’s circular orbit?

Homework Equations


F = qVxB
F = mv^2/r
W= qxV
F = ma
K=1/2mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution


so for part a, i was thinking to find the kinetic energy using 5 MeV = 1/2mv^2 but i'd use the conversion first to go from eV to J
for part b, i was thinking of setting qVxB = mv^2/r
 
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meaghan said:
so for part a, i was thinking to find the kinetic energy using 5 MeV = 1/2mv^2 but i'd use the conversion first to go from eV to J
for part b, i was thinking of setting qVxB = mv^2/r

where lies your problem?
 
Not sure sure how to solve it or if I'm approaching it correctly
 
meaghan said:

Homework Statement


Cyclotrons are widely used in nuclear medicine for producing short-lived radioactive isotopes. These cyclotrons typically accelerate H− (the hydrideion, which has one proton and two electrons) to an energy of 5MeV to 20MeV. This ion has a mass very close to that of a proton because the electron mass is negligible−about 1/2000 of the proton’s mass. A typical magnetic field in such cyclotrons is 2.3 T

A)What is the speed of a 5.0-MeV H−?

B)If the H− has energy 5.0MeV and B= 2.3 T , what is the radius of this ion’s circular orbit?

Homework Equations


F = qVxB
F = mv^2/r
W= qxV
F = ma
K=1/2mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution


so for part a, i was thinking to find the kinetic energy using 5 MeV = 1/2mv^2 but i'd use the conversion first to go from eV to J
for part b, i was thinking of setting qVxB = mv^2/r
Your approach is correct. The only thing to watch out for is to be sure to check the velocity that you get against the speed of light. As long as it is less than a percent or two of c, then you don't have to make any corrections. If it is a significant fraction of c, you will need to use a relativistic correction to get the actual speed. Makes sense? :smile:
 
yes it does! Relativity didn't factor into this at all since we haven't learned about it yet :)
 
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