Magnetic Field Mass Spectrometer Calculations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem related to a magnetic field mass spectrometer, specifically focusing on calculating the magnetic field intensity given the radius of curvature of a proton's path. Participants are exploring the relationship between magnetic forces and circular motion in the context of classical physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between magnetic force and centripetal force, attempting to equate them to derive the magnetic field strength. Questions arise regarding the calculation of velocity and the role of voltage in the problem setup.

Discussion Status

There is ongoing exploration of the problem, with participants sharing their attempts and seeking clarification on specific aspects, such as the calculation of velocity and the interpretation of variables in the equations. Some participants have provided guidance on rearranging equations and considering conservation of energy.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the mass of the proton and the voltage between the plates as relevant parameters, while expressing uncertainty about how to derive certain values necessary for solving the problem.

AceInfinity
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Here's a practice diploma question I found on the internet, this isn't homework. I'm studying, I just need help on how to do this type of question.

http://www.paulway.com/physics30/p30dips/p30jan2002.pdf (Page 11 Numerical Response #5)
Answer: 4.80x10^-3

Homework Statement



In the magnetic field mass spectrometer shown, the radius of curvature
of a proton’s path is 3.00 m. What is the magnetic field intensity?

Homework Equations



I'm guessing this one, but I don't see how radius would be added to solve it.
[PLAIN]http://k.min.us/idLl6m.png

The Attempt at a Solution



I couldn't even attempt this one, sorry, I tried, but maybe I have the wrong equation? I've posted other questions, but as I was reviewing I understand that I never really knew how to do this kind of problem. So for anyone to help me starting with the basics, would be helpful as any help at all is highly appreciated.
 
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Well the magnetic field is going to cause the proton to move in a circular path.

So the magnetic force provides the centripetal force mv2/r. So equate that to BQv and solve for B.
 
alright, so I have this:

mv2/r
= (1.67x10-27kg)(v2)/(3.00m)

How do I solve for v in either equation when I don't have the Fm?
 
AceInfinity said:
alright, so I have this:

mv2/r
= (1.67x10-27kg)(v2)/(3.00m)

How do I solve for v in either equation when I don't have the Fm?

Because you will have

mv2/r = Bqv

so you can get v.
 
Ahh, thanks, I'm going to try that...

... > v = qBr/m

v = (1.60x10-19)(B)(3.00m)/(1.67x10-27kg)

What exactly is B though in this equation? How do I get it
 
Still requesting some help on this one. At this point I'm at a loss for how to solve this kind of problem at all. Sorry for being so impatient, but I'm trying to learn as much as I can for today about classical physics involving charge, momentum, mainly.

I know that the curvature of the proton's path is due to the inertia of the proton having a mass of 1.67x10-27kg

I forgot to add in, that the voltage between the 2 first plates that the proton passes through is 1.00x104 Volts.
 
Last edited:
AceInfinity said:
Ahh, thanks, I'm going to try that...

... > v = qBr/m

v = (1.60x10-19)(B)(3.00m)/(1.67x10-27kg)

What exactly is B though in this equation? How do I get it

B is the magnetic field strength, which is what you are looking for.

AceInfinity said:
Still requesting some help on this one. At this point I'm at a loss for how to solve this kind of problem at all. Sorry for being so impatient, but I'm trying to learn as much as I can for today about classical physics involving charge, momentum, mainly.

I know that the curvature of the proton's path is due to the inertia of the proton having a mass of 1.67x10-27kg

I forgot to add in, that the voltage between the 2 first plates that the proton passes through is 1.00x104 Volts.

You were told you to use the value of 'v' from the question before.

From Bq=mv/r you need to rearrange for B and you have m=1.67(10-27) kg.

(If you did not do the part before to get v, you should consider conservation of energy for that.)
 
Alright I got it:

B = [mv/r] ÷ q
B = [(1.67x10-27)(1.38x106)/(3.00m)] ÷ 1.60x10-19
B = 4.8012...x10-3

However I just took the answer of the velocity from the answer key. I'm not quite sure how to solve for velocity in this case. If that could be the second (should have been the first) part of this thread?
 
That should be correct now.
 

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