How Do You Determine Magnetic Force Direction When Fields Aren't Perpendicular?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the direction of magnetic force when the velocity and magnetic field are not perpendicular. The right-hand rule (RHR) remains applicable for finding the direction of the magnetic force, while the magnitude is calculated using the formula F = qvBsin(θ), where θ is the angle between the velocity vector and the magnetic field. It is emphasized that only the component of velocity perpendicular to the magnetic field experiences force, while the parallel component does not contribute to the magnetic force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the right-hand rule (RHR) for magnetic forces
  • Familiarity with the Lorentz force equation (F = qvBsin(θ))
  • Knowledge of vector components in physics
  • Basic concepts of magnetic fields and forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the right-hand rule in various magnetic field scenarios
  • Explore the Lorentz force in different contexts, including charged particle motion
  • Learn about vector decomposition and its role in physics
  • Investigate the effects of magnetic fields on charged particles at different angles
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in electromagnetism and the behavior of charged particles in magnetic fields.

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Hello, I know about the right hand rule, but I get confused when velocity and magnetic field are not perpendicular to each other, then how do I determine the direction of the magnetic force? Can I not use the right hand rule?
 
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You can still use the RH rule for direction. The magnitude just gets multiplied by sin(theta).
 
It is the component of the velocity at right angles to the field that experienses the force.
The component parallel to the field does not experience any force
 

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