Magnetic field in a particle accelerator

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the magnetic field in a particle accelerator, specifically for protons moving in a circular path. Participants explore the relevant equations and concepts related to magnetic fields and circular motion of charged particles.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions the momentum of protons and the need to find the magnetic field's magnitude and direction, suggesting a straightforward approach might be applicable.
  • Another participant prompts consideration of the acceleration associated with the given momentum in circular motion.
  • A third participant emphasizes starting with the Lorentz force and relates it to centripetal force in the context of charged particles in a magnetic field.
  • A later reply indicates a resolution to the initial confusion regarding momentum units and presents a formula for the magnetic field, concluding with a calculated value of 1.5 T.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the approach to the problem initially, but there is agreement on the use of relevant physics concepts such as momentum, Lorentz force, and centripetal force. The final calculation of the magnetic field is presented as a personal conclusion without further discussion or verification from others.

Contextual Notes

There are potential limitations regarding the assumptions made about the conditions of the problem, such as the definitions of variables and the context of the calculations. The discussion does not clarify whether all necessary factors were considered in the final answer.

mgoff87
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Protons with momentum 2.2×10−16 kg*m/s are magnetically steered clockwise in a circular path 1.8 km in diameter at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Illinois.

I am asked to find the magnitude and direction of the field in the magnets surrounding the beam pipe...

I'm fairly certain that this is a simple plug and chug problem, but I'm not sure which equation to use...perhaps something with the cyclotron frequency?
 
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acceleration

Hint: What is the acceleration of something with that momentum going in that circle?
 
when it comes to charged particles in a magnetic field you're supposed to start with lorentz force
circular motion refers to centripedal force

let's not spoil any further
 
got it!

Alright, the only thing that was confusing me was the units for momentum and trying to set as one variable...

What i found was B = mv/rq where mv was the momentum that they gave us. After that it was just plugging in the numbers.

I got my final answer to be 1.5 T
 

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