Electron travelling in Magnetic and Electric Field.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a multiple-choice question regarding the behavior of an electron moving through both electric and magnetic fields. The context involves understanding the forces acting on the electron due to these fields and how they influence its motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses confusion about how an electron can maintain a straight-line path at constant velocity despite the presence of an electric field, which typically alters speed and direction. They question the roles of the electric and magnetic fields in this scenario.
  • Some participants explore the idea that the magnetic field could be oriented to counteract the electric field's force, suggesting a balance of forces.
  • There is a repeated inquiry about the direction of the magnetic field, specifically whether it should be in the -j direction to achieve the desired effect.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the forces involved. There is an exchange of ideas regarding the conditions under which the electron can travel in a straight line, indicating a productive exploration of the topic without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the implications of the forces from both the electric and magnetic fields, particularly in terms of their directions and the resultant motion of the electron. There is an acknowledgment of the complexities involved in the interactions between these fields.

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:
[tex]F=qv\, x\, B[/tex]

-Dan
 

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