Rail gun and magnetic field question

In summary, the conversation discussed the scenario of a Royal Zargon Warrior facing an octomorph on a rock pillar and needing to adjust his rail gun's muzzle velocity to kill it. The necessary muzzle velocity was determined to be 2394 m/s using the equations F=qvbsintheta and F=mg.
  • #1
Turpulus
11
0

Homework Statement


The planet Zargon has a magnetic field that is oriented the same as Earth’s, but has a magnitude of 1.26 T! A Royal Zargon Warrior is exploring the Badlands at the Zargon equator when he senses that a vicious octomorph is on top of the rock pillar 9.50 m above him. He dare not move from his position, facing due East, for fear that the octomorph will see him. His rail gun, which has a varible muzzle velocity, shoots pellets of mass 4.00 g, that carry a charge of +1.60 C. What muzzle velocity should the Zargon Warrior adjust his rail gun to in order to kill the octomorph?


Homework Equations



F=qvbsintheta
F=mg

The Attempt at a Solution


So if he shoots the particle due east, the particle will deflect upward in a circular path with radius =mv/(qB), you want r to be 9.5m/2 = 4.75m, and the rest is algebra. Therefore I got a velocity of 2,394m/s. Is this correct?
 
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  • #2
Yes, 2394 m/s for the muzzle velocity is correct.

ehild
 

1. What is a rail gun?

A rail gun is a type of weapon that uses electromagnetic force to accelerate a projectile to high velocities. It consists of two parallel rails that act as conductors, and a moving armature or projectile that completes the circuit between the rails. When a large current is passed through the rails, a strong magnetic field is created that propels the armature forward.

2. How does a rail gun work?

A rail gun works by converting electrical energy into kinetic energy. When a large current is passed through the rails, a magnetic field is created which pushes against the armature and accelerates it down the rails. As the armature moves, it pulls the magnetic field along with it, creating a continuous force on the armature and propelling it forward at high speeds.

3. What is the advantage of using a rail gun over traditional firearms?

The main advantage of a rail gun over traditional firearms is the increased velocity of the projectile. Since the projectile is accelerated by an electromagnetic force rather than a chemical explosion, it can reach much higher speeds. This results in greater range, accuracy, and penetrating power.

4. How is the magnetic field created in a rail gun?

The magnetic field in a rail gun is created by the flow of electrical current through the rails. This current is generated by a power source, such as a large capacitor bank, that is connected to the two rails. As the current flows through the rails, it creates a magnetic field which is responsible for accelerating the projectile.

5. Are there any limitations to the use of rail guns?

While rail guns have many advantages, there are also some limitations to their use. One major limitation is the high power requirements. The large currents needed to generate a strong magnetic field can be difficult and expensive to produce. Additionally, the intense heat and forces generated during firing can cause damage to the rails and other components, requiring frequent maintenance and replacement.

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