# Direction of magnetic force

1. Oct 2, 2013

### DODGEVIPER13

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Assuming the following directions of the charged particles velocity and magnetic field indicate the direction of the magnetic force exerted on the particle?

2. Relevant equations

3. The attempt at a solution
The force vector is perpendicular to the B field and the right hand rule states the charge is out of the page so would the vector be down?

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2. Oct 3, 2013

### Staff: Mentor

Well, since the picture is posted sideways, it's hard to know what you mean by "down".

What equation should you use in this problem? It's an equation that you should get very familiar and comfortable with. And does the sign of the charge make a difference in force direction?

3. Oct 3, 2013

### DODGEVIPER13

Lorentz force law Q(E+uxB) and ya if the sign is negative it will be towards it if positive outwards

4. Oct 3, 2013

### Staff: Mentor

That's the correct equation and you have the correct understanding/intuition. Does that mean you can solve the question now?

5. Oct 3, 2013

### DODGEVIPER13

Is H analogous to B so it should be perpendicular to H field?

6. Oct 3, 2013

### Staff: Mentor

Yes. $$B = \mu H$$

So B and H are co-linear, and differ by the constant $$\mu$$

7. Oct 3, 2013

### DODGEVIPER13

Ok we'll I guess it would be easier to answer this with RHR which would be out of the page right? In which case I could draw a circle with a dot in it and just write found by RHR