Finding Revolutions per Second of Electron & Proton in Magnetic Field

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the number of revolutions per second for an electron and a proton moving in a magnetic field. The original poster presents a scenario where an electron enters a magnetic field and is deflected into a circular path, seeking to find an expression for its frequency of revolution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between magnetic force and centripetal force, with attempts to derive expressions for angular velocity and frequency. Questions arise regarding the presence of the factor 2π in the frequency expression and the relationship between angular velocity and frequency.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, clarifying concepts and relationships between different physical quantities. Some guidance has been provided regarding the distinction between angular velocity and frequency, with acknowledgment of the correct expressions being discussed.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of potential confusion regarding the definitions and relationships between angular velocity and frequency, as well as the specific expressions provided in the textbook. The original poster expresses a desire for further assistance in progressing through the problem.

FelixISF
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Homework Statement


An electron of speed v enters a region of magnetic field B directed normally to its velocity and is deflected into a circular path.
Find an expression for the number of revolutions per second the electron will make. If the electron is replaced by a proton, how does your answer change?


Homework Equations


revolutions per second = angular velocity = v/r
I also know, that the answer should be f=eB/2pi(m)
F=eBv sin(theta), where e=charge of an electron





The Attempt at a Solution



I figured, that one needs to replace v by 2(pi)r, which is angular velocity.
So, ma=eB2(pi)r




From then, I do not know how to go farther, please help with your suggestions or even solutions!




Thank you before hand!
 
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In this case the magnetic field forces the particle into a circular orbit. There is a general name and expression for a force that keeps a particle in an orbit. Do you know what it is?
 


Well, this force is certainly known as centripetal force :)

I expect that I need to set up an equation of magnetic force and centripetal force and solve it for v/r which is the angular velocity or the revolutions per second.
The problem is, that I get the following answer:

v/r = eB/m...
now my book says, that the answer is f=eB/2(pi)m
where does the 2(pi) come from. any suggestions?
 


You're correct about the centripetal force and you're also correct that \omega=v/r. Now note that the answer in the book does not calculate omega, but it calculates f, frequency. Do you know how omega and f are related?

<br /> \frac{v}{r}=\frac{eB}{m}<br />

Is correct.
 


omega = 2(pi)f

Thank you so much for your support, I finally got the answer.

I am new to the forum, and will recommend it among my friends, as I find it highly effective.
 


You're welcome.
 

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