Electric fields, particles and deflection

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions under which a particle can travel through an electric field without deflection, specifically when it has an initial velocity perpendicular to the field. The context is set within the study of electric fields and particle motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the idea that a particle might remain undeflected due to having a very low charge or being neutral. Questions are raised about other potential properties that could contribute to this behavior, with some participants suggesting that neutrality is a key factor.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants engaging in questioning and exploring different properties of the particle. Some guidance has been provided regarding the significance of the particle's charge, but there is no explicit consensus on additional circumstances that might apply.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the original problem's request for "circumstances" that allow for undeflected motion, indicating a focus on broader conditions beyond just charge. There is a playful mention of unconventional ideas that are not considered valid in this context.

Mr.somebody
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Homework Statement


Explain the circumstances that enable a particle to move un-deflected with uniform motion through an electric field if it is given an initial velocity perpendicular to the electric field. Assume the electric field is the only field present.[/B]

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


If the electric field was extremely weak and the particle had an extremely low charge.
 
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Can you think of a property that the particle might have (or not have) that would allow it to move undeflected (even in a strong electric field)?

[EDIT: I think you're pretty close when you said "the particle had an extremely low charge". Why not go all the way? :woot:]
 
Last edited:
I don't know how I missed that THANKS! it should be neutral right?
 
Mr.somebody said:
... it should be neutral right?
Yes, that would be one reason the particle doesn't deflect.

Now, the original statement of the problem asks for "circumstances". But I can't think of anything else. (I don't think mental telepathy telekinesis would be an acceptable answer.)
 

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