Electron travelling in Magnetic and Electric Field.

AI Thread Summary
An electron with a velocity of 2.0 x 10^6 m/s enters an electric field of 200 V/m and travels in a straight line due to the presence of a magnetic field. The confusion arises from the interaction between the electric and magnetic fields, as the electric field typically alters speed and direction. However, if the magnetic field is oriented correctly, it can produce a force that counteracts the electric field's effect, allowing the electron to maintain a constant velocity. The magnetic force acts perpendicular to the electron's velocity, which is crucial for understanding its motion. The discussion emphasizes the need for the magnetic field to be aligned to balance the forces for the electron's straight-line path.
vg19
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I am having trouble figuring out the answer to one MCQ question.

An electron with velocity = 2.0 x 10^6 i m/s enters a region with electric field E = 200 j V/m. Because there is also a magnetic field present, the electron follows a straight line path at a constant velocty. The magnetic field could be:

a) B = (-1 x 10^4 k) T
b) B = (4 x 10^8 k) T
c) B = (1 x 10^-4 j) T
d) B = (1 x 10^4 k) T

I am really really confused with this question. Wont the electric field cause the electron to change speeds and direction? Also, the magnetic field can only alter the direction of the electron correct? So, how can the electron follow a straight line path at all?? AHHH I think something is horribly wrong with my logic and any help would be appreciated.

Thanks
 
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What if the magnetic field was set up so that the force felt due to the magnetic field counteracts the force of the electric field?
 
Would the magnetic field not have to be in the -j direction then?
 
vg19 said:
Would the magnetic field not have to be in the -j direction then?

The force from the magnetic field is at right angles to the velocity of the electron:
F=qv\, x\, B

-Dan
 
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