Motion of an electron in a Magentic Field

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on plotting the motion of an electron in a magnetic field using MATLAB, specifically in the x-y plane with the initial position at the origin. The user is experiencing issues with the motion appearing as a spiral rather than the expected circular path. The equations provided for updating velocity and position are based on the Lorentz force, but integration errors may be causing the spiral trajectory. The community suggests that the equations are correct, and the spiral motion could stem from numerical integration inaccuracies. Proper adjustments in the integration method may help achieve the desired circular motion.
Wiseman101
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Homework Statement


Plot the motion of an electron in the x-y plane due to a magnetic field in the z plane. The initial position is at the origin. The initial velocity can be chosen at will.

Homework Equations


F = q(vXB)

The Attempt at a Solution


The program I am using is Matlab. I tried plotting the motion using the following set of equations, but the motion was a spiral, not circular. Any pointers in the right direction would be much appreciated!
(Vx is the velocity in the x direction, x is the position, etc..)

w=q/m

Vx(i+1) = Vx(i) + w*(Vy(i)*B)*dt
x(i+1) = x(i) + Vx(i)*dt

Vy(i+1) = Vy(i) + w*( -Vx(i)*B)*dt
y(i+1) = y(i) + Vy(i)*dt
 
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It's probably spiral in MATLAB because of integration errors. It seems you think that the motion has to be circular because a magnetic field always applies a force perpendicular to the electron's motion, and you'd be right.
 
Well as long as my equations are right then that's ok:smile:
 

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