Finding the radius of a Proton's arc inside a square.

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SUMMARY

The radius of the arc made by a proton moving through a magnetic field created by a square magnet is equal to the length of one side of the square. This conclusion was reached after analyzing the geometry of the situation, confirming that the radius can be determined by inspection of the image provided in the problem statement. The discussion highlights the simplicity of the solution, emphasizing that the radius is not derived from complex equations but rather from basic geometric principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic geometry concepts, particularly related to arcs and circles.
  • Familiarity with the motion of charged particles in magnetic fields.
  • Knowledge of magnetic field properties and their effects on particle trajectories.
  • Ability to interpret geometric diagrams and apply visual reasoning.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of charged particle motion in magnetic fields, focusing on Lorentz force.
  • Explore geometric properties of arcs and circles to strengthen understanding of radius calculations.
  • Learn about magnetic field strength calculations for different shapes, including square magnets.
  • Review integration techniques for arc length to understand their application in physics problems.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and particle motion, as well as educators looking for practical examples of geometric applications in physics problems.

RelativeJosef
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Homework Statement


This is for a practice question on an exam:

I am able to finish the problem, if I could figure out how to find the radius of this arc the proton makes.

Homework Equations


I have nothing.

The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried arc length equations and just integrating the change in dx and dy, but all my answers have been nonsensical.

I have a feeling this is very simple and I wasn't paying attention enough in Geometry back in grade school.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 

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RelativeJosef said:

Homework Statement


This is for a practice question on an exam:

I am able to finish the problem, if I could figure out how to find the radius of this arc the proton makes.

Homework Equations


I have nothing.

The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried arc length equations and just integrating the change in dx and dy, but all my answers have been nonsensical.

I have a feeling this is very simple and I wasn't paying attention enough in Geometry back in grade school.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Please write out the complete problem statement.
Surely the radius of the arc is trivial by inspection of the image?
 
gneill said:
Please write out the complete problem statement.
Surely the radius of the arc is trivial by inspection of the image?
I have since deduced the radius, and indeed it was trivial.

If you are interested, in calculating the required magnetic field of this square magnet to produce such a curve in a protons path through the magnetic field, the radius is simply the side length of one side of the square.
 

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