Electron moving in a magnetic field

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the motion of an electron launched into a magnetic field at a 45-degree angle. The subject area includes concepts from electromagnetism, particularly the behavior of charged particles in magnetic fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the motion of the electron, considering its velocity components relative to the magnetic field. There is a discussion about the potential shape of the electron's path, with references to circular and helical motion.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, sharing interpretations of the electron's motion. Some suggest visual analogies like springs or slinkies to describe the expected trajectory, indicating a productive exploration of the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

There is an underlying assumption regarding the effects of the magnetic field on the electron's motion, particularly how different velocity components interact with the field. The exact parameters of the magnetic field and the electron's initial conditions are not detailed.

PennyGirl
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Homework Statement


how will an electron move if it is launched into an magnetic field at an angle of 45o (w/ respect to the magnetic field)


Homework Equations


F=q*v X B


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm having a hard time picturing what is going on. I know that if the electron is perpendicular to the magnetic field, then it will go around in a circle. I'm thinking that the electron will make and elipse
 
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Try to think of it like this: there are two velocity components (one along the direction of the magnetic field and one perpendicular to the magnetic field). The component perpendicular to the magnetic field will allow for an acceleration that is perpendicular to that particular velocity; the component parallel to the magnetic field results in no acceleration and so that velocity component remains unaffected.
 
so it will look like a spring/slinky? because the part that isn't affected (perpendicular) with make a circle while the other one won't be affected and will therefore go in a straight line
 
Yup...spring, slinky, spiral...all the sort.
 
The mathematical term for this shape is a helix.
 
thanks so much!
 

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