Magnetic Fields- Finding the radius

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a single ionized uranium ion accelerated through a potential difference and its subsequent motion in a magnetic field. The subject area includes concepts from electromagnetism and kinematics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate centripetal force to magnetic force using a specific formula to find the radius of the ion's path. Some participants question the method of determining the velocity, suggesting that the potential difference should not be directly used as the speed.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the relationship between potential difference and speed, with one suggesting the use of energy conservation to find the correct speed. There is a recognition of a potential misunderstanding regarding the variables involved in the equations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights a potential issue with the interpretation of variables, specifically the distinction between potential difference and speed in the context of the formulas being used.

Studentphysics
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Homework Statement


A single ionized uranium ion of mass 6.9 x 10 ^-25 kg is accelerated through a potential difference of 4.4 x 10^5 V.
What is the radius of the path it would take if injected at 90 degrees into 0.47 T uniform magnetic field at this velocity?

3. Attempts

Since centripetal force is equal to magnetic force, I tried using the formula of m(v^2)/r = Bqv

By rearranging this, I was able to isolate for the radius mv/Bq = r

I used these values, in the the formula to find the radius
(4.4 x 10^5 V)(6.9 x 10 ^-25 kg) / (0.47T)(1.6 * 10^-19)

The answer I got was 4.037 m, however this is wrong because the real answer is 4.14m. I'm not sure what I am doing wrong, because the two values seem really close

Thank you
 
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It's probably a round off issue. How did you find v?
 
I used the potential difference of 4.4 x 10^5 V as my V
 
Studentphysics said:
I used the potential difference of 4.4 x 10^5 V as my V
That's a problem. The "v" in qvB and in mv2/r is a speed, not a potential difference. You need to find the speed from the potential difference. Hint: Use energy conservation.
 

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