How do electric and magnetic fields affect the motion of an electron?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the motion of an electron in the presence of both electric and magnetic fields. The user seeks clarification on calculating the radius of the electron's circular motion using the formula R = m*v/(q*B) when both fields are present. It is noted that the electric field will increase the electron's velocity, affecting the radius of its path. To find the acceleration, the Lorentz force should be incorporated into Newton's second law. The interaction of electric and magnetic fields complicates the motion, requiring a more comprehensive approach to accurately determine the electron's trajectory.
brad sue
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Hi, I have this problem and I need some explanation and help to solve it:

An electron is injected at t=0sec with a velocity of vo =(2*10^6 m/s) i into a region with parallel electric field E=(1500V/m)j and B=(-.2T)j,respectively.
Calculate the subsequent motion.


What I did is that I know that the motion will be a circular one.
then I computed R =m*v/(q*B)
Can I compute R this way since we have electric and magnetic fields together??

Also How can I find the acceleration? when I do V2/R I don't get the right answer at the back of the textbook.

Thank you
B
 
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Since there's an electric field, the magnitude of it's velocity increases, so the radii will chage. You can plug the Lorentz force into Newton's 2nd law.
 
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