How Are Cathode Rays Deflected by Current-Carrying Wires?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of cathode rays in relation to a current-carrying wire, specifically focusing on the deflection of electrons in a cathode-ray tube when aimed parallel to the wire. The subject area includes concepts from electromagnetism, particularly the interaction between electric currents and magnetic fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the effects of a magnetic field generated by a current-carrying wire on a beam of electrons. Questions arise regarding the application of the right-hand rule and the Lorentz force, with some participants seeking clarification on these concepts.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants attempting to clarify their understanding of the magnetic field's orientation and its effects on the cathode rays. Some guidance has been offered regarding the right-hand rule and the Lorentz force, though not all participants are familiar with these concepts.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the setup of the problem, with participants questioning the initial assumptions about the configuration of the cathode-ray tube and the wire. Additionally, there is an emphasis on the need for further research into the Lorentz force to fully engage with the problem.

randomstu1997
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Homework Statement


A cathode-ray tube aims electrons parallel to a nearby wire that carries current in the same direction. What will happen to the cathode rays in terms of deflection?

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]The Motor force deflects the cathode rays ?
upload_2014-12-16_20-32-35.png
 
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randomstu1997 said:

Homework Statement


A cathode-ray tube aims electrons parallel to a nearby wire that carries current in the same direction. What will happen to the cathode rays in terms of deflection?

The Attempt at a Solution


The Motor force deflects the cathode rays ?
View attachment 76670

Your picture doesn't match the question (coil versus parallel wire). Can you please check that?
 
Sorry. Then let's say a steady beam of electrons move parallel to the wire carrying current. Then what happens? Thanks
 
Yeah, that matches your problem statement better. :-)

So what do you think? Think about the right hand rule -- what does the B-field look like around the wire? And again use the right hand rule to figure out the Lorentz force on the e-beam from that B-field. Are you familiar with the vector force equation Lorentz force?
 
The B-field meets 90 degrees to the electron. I am not familiar with lorentz force.
 
randomstu1997 said:
The B-field meets 90 degrees to the electron. I am not familiar with lorentz force.

Well, you need to understand the Lorentz force to answer this question. Please re-check your textbook or use a Google or Wikipedia search. Please let us know what you find.
 
Ok I think I got it. According to wikipedia, there must be an opposite reactive force to the force produced by lorentz equation[PLAIN]http://upload.wikimedia.org/math/1/1/7/117693a4a6d55502f66788d04f156c72.png. This opposite reactive force pushes the electron away. Am I right?
 
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