SUMMARY
An electron that is stationary in a magnetic field does not experience a Lorentz force. The Lorentz force is defined by the equation F = Q(E + u × B), where E is the electric field, u is the velocity vector, and B is the magnetic field. In this scenario, since both the electric field E and the velocity u are zero, the resulting force F is also zero, confirming that no Lorentz force acts on the stationary electron. This conclusion is supported by the principles of Newton's laws, where the net force is zero when acceleration is zero.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of Lorentz force and its equation F = Q(E + u × B)
- Basic knowledge of Newton's laws of motion
- Familiarity with vector operations, particularly cross products
- Concept of electric and magnetic fields
NEXT STEPS
- Study the implications of stationary charges in electromagnetic fields
- Explore the relationship between electric fields and magnetic fields in electromagnetic theory
- Learn about the behavior of charged particles in non-uniform magnetic fields
- Investigate applications of Lorentz force in particle accelerators
USEFUL FOR
Students of physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, educators teaching concepts of force and motion, and researchers exploring particle dynamics in magnetic fields.