Magnetism: Solving Force Problem with qvB Equation

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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving an electron experiencing a strong force while traveling at a specific velocity in a magnetic field. The individual is attempting to find the magnitude and direction of the field using the equation F=qvB. However, they realize that they made a mistake in the equation and should have used F/qv instead. They also mention the importance of using units in problem solving.
  • #1
Axeman2k
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I am currently working on a problem that states...
An electron experiences the greatest force as it travels 2.0x10^6 m/s in a magnetic field when it is moving southward. The force is upward and of magnitude 2.3x10^-12 N. What is the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field?

I started with the equation F=qvB and came out with B=(qv)/F since I am trying to find the magnitude of the magnetic field. That calculates to
B=((1.6x10^-19)(2x10^6))/(2.3x10^-12) but does not come out to a correct awnser. Is there anything I am doing wrong?
 
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  • #2
It should be F/qv. To catch mistakes like this, you should use units in your work, or at least keep them in mind.
 
  • #3
oops, thanks for catching that
 

What is the qvB equation and how is it used in solving force problems related to magnetism?

The qvB equation, also known as the Lorentz force equation, is a fundamental equation in electromagnetism that describes the force experienced by a charged particle moving in a magnetic field. It is given by F = qvB, where F is the force, q is the charge of the particle, v is its velocity, and B is the magnetic field. This equation is used to calculate the force experienced by a charged particle in a magnetic field, which is crucial in understanding the behavior of these particles in various applications.

What is the relationship between qvB equation and the direction of the force experienced by a charged particle in a magnetic field?

The direction of the force experienced by a charged particle in a magnetic field can be determined using the right-hand rule. If the particle's velocity is perpendicular to the magnetic field, the force will be perpendicular to both the velocity and the magnetic field. If the particle's velocity is parallel to the magnetic field, there will be no force experienced by the particle. This is in accordance with the qvB equation, where the force is proportional to the cross product of the velocity and the magnetic field vectors.

Can the qvB equation be used to calculate the force on a moving charge in an electric field?

No, the qvB equation only applies to the force experienced by a charged particle in a magnetic field. To calculate the force on a moving charge in an electric field, the equation F = qE is used, where E is the electric field and q is the charge of the particle. This is because the force experienced by a charged particle in an electric field is proportional to the electric field strength, whereas in a magnetic field, it is proportional to the velocity of the particle.

What are some real-world applications of the qvB equation?

The qvB equation has numerous applications in various fields, including particle accelerators, mass spectrometers, and electric motors. It is also essential in understanding the behavior of charged particles in Earth's magnetic field and the formation of auroras. Additionally, the qvB equation is used in medical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and in the development of magnetic levitation trains.

Are there any limitations to the qvB equation?

One limitation of the qvB equation is that it only applies to charged particles moving in a magnetic field. It does not take into account the effects of other forces, such as gravity or friction, on the particle. Additionally, the qvB equation assumes that the magnetic field is uniform, which may not be the case in real-world applications. In some cases, more complex equations may be needed to accurately describe the behavior of charged particles in a non-uniform magnetic field.

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