Electromagnetic Force Problem -

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the electromagnetic force acting on a proton using the Lorentz Force law. Participants are examining the contributions from both electric and magnetic fields, as well as clarifying the parameters involved in the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the Lorentz Force law and the need to consider both electric and magnetic forces. Questions arise regarding the charge of the proton, the velocity's exponent, and the direction of the forces involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing clarifications on the parameters and engaging in conceptual exploration of the forces acting on the proton. Some guidance on using the full vector form of the Lorentz force has been offered, and there is acknowledgment of the need to consider the directions of the forces.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the clarity issues with the provided figure and the importance of understanding the vector nature of the forces involved. There is an emphasis on ensuring the correct interpretation of the physical setup and parameters.

ashkash
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What is the magnitude of the force on the proton in the figure?

The figure is in the link below.

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/5842/untitled9xb.png

I have tried the Lorentz Force law that F = q(E + v x B) and got a numberical result of 4.8*10^-13 N, but that is wrong.
 
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What's the charge on the particle? And is that a 7 in the exponent for the velocity?
 
The charge on the particle is 1.6*10^-19, as it is a proton. Yes, that is a 7 in the exponent for the velocity.

the velocity is 2*10^7 m/s
E = 1.0 *10^6 V/m
B = 0.10 T

Sorry about the picture not being clear.
 
Sorry, didn't see that you said it was a proton in your first post :)

If you are going to use the Lorentz force law here you'll have to use it in its full vector form:

[tex]\vec{F} = q\left(\vec{E} + \vec{v} \times \vec{B}\right)[/tex]

If we call the direction to the right x, up y, and out of the page z, then you can see that the electric force will push the particle in the positive y direction whereas the magnetic force will push it in the positive x. The square of the magnitude of the force will then be the sum of the squares of the electric and magnetic forces (just from the Pythagorean Theorem).
 
thanks, it worked.
 
how did you find the force of the electric field on the proton to be up? I understand the reason for the direction of the magnetic force on the proton but not for the electric field. Would you be so kind as to explain please?
 

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