Positively Charged Particle in a Magnetic Field

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of a positively charged particle entering a magnetic field, specifically analyzing the direction of the magnetic force acting on the particle based on the Lorentz force equation.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the application of the Lorentz force equation and question the direction of the magnetic force. There is mention of using the right-hand rule for determining the force direction.

Discussion Status

Some participants confirm the direction of the force as horizontally to the right, while others clarify the correct rule to use, indicating a mix of agreement and clarification on the conventions used.

Contextual Notes

There is a note of confusion regarding the use of the left-hand versus right-hand rule, with participants addressing potential misunderstandings in terminology.

amcavoy
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In the attached figure (also at http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/3231/lorentz5sa.png" ) is a positively charged particle entering a magnetic field that points out of the page. The velocity of the particle is in the upward direction, orthogonal to the magnetic field.

My only question is, based on the equation [itex]\vec{F}=Q\vec{v}\times\vec{B}[/itex], am I correct to say that the force due to the magnetic field is horizontally to the right?

Thank you.
 

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amcavoy said:
In the attached figure (also at http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/3231/lorentz5sa.png" ) is a positively charged particle entering a magnetic field that points out of the page. The velocity of the particle is in the upward direction, orthogonal to the magnetic field.

My only question is, based on the equation [itex]\vec{F}=Q\vec{v}\times\vec{B}[/itex], am I correct to say that the force due to the magnetic field is horizontally to the right?

Thank you.
yes, that's correct
 
Last edited by a moderator:
yes you can say that by using the left hand rule.
 
gem0688 said:
yes you can say that by using the left hand rule.
I am not sure if that was a typo or a joke, so just in case...
Amcavoy is correct by the standard convention which is the right hand rule.
 
Last edited:
JustinLevy said:
I am not sure if that was a typo or a joke, so just in case...
Amcavoy is correct by the standard convention which is the right hand rule.

soz, typo! :blushing: :redface:
 

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