Magnetic Force, Electric Force

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of magnetic and electric forces on a positively charged particle moving in a uniform magnetic field. The magnetic field is oriented in the positive z direction, while the particle moves in the positive x direction. The net force on the particle can be made zero by applying an electric field in the negative y direction, as confirmed by the equation F = q(v x B). The initial confusion arose from a misinterpretation of the direction of the resulting magnetic force, which is indeed in the negative y direction, necessitating an electric field in the negative y direction to achieve equilibrium.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz force law (F = q(v x B))
  • Knowledge of electric field concepts (F = qE)
  • Familiarity with vector cross product operations
  • Basic principles of charged particle motion in magnetic fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of electric fields on charged particles in magnetic fields
  • Learn about the right-hand rule for determining force directions in electromagnetism
  • Explore advanced topics in electromagnetism, such as electromagnetic induction
  • Review problem-solving techniques for physics involving forces and motion
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching electromagnetism, and anyone interested in understanding the interactions between electric and magnetic fields on charged particles.

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Homework Statement


24. A uniform magnetic field is in the positive z direction. A positively charged particle is moving in the positive x direction through the field. The net force on the particle can be made zero by applying an electric field in what direction?
A. Positive y
B. Negative y
C. Positive x
D. Negative x
E. Positive z


Homework Equations



F = q* (vxB)
F = q*E

The Attempt at a Solution



The answer for this problem is given and in my book it's given as B. However, I keep getting A. I don't know where I'm going wrong.

So if the positive particle is moving in the positive x-direction and the B-field is in the positive z direction, then the resulting magnetic force is in the negative y-direction. And if we want a net force of zero on this positive particle, then it seems like if we apply an electric field in the positive y direction then we could get the net zero force that we're looking for. Is this an incorrect explanation?
 
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I agree with you. I think the book is wrong. Anyone else?
 

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