The direction of proton in a magnetic field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the direction of the magnetic force acting on a positively charged particle moving in a magnetic field directed out of the page. The right-hand rule is established as the primary method for finding the force direction, where the thumb represents the velocity of the charge, the index finger indicates the magnetic field direction, and the middle finger reveals the force direction. The magnetic force is mathematically expressed as \(\vec{F} = q\vec{v} \times \vec{B}\), emphasizing the importance of vector cross products in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the right-hand rule for magnetic forces
  • Basic knowledge of vector cross products
  • Familiarity with magnetic fields and their representations
  • Concept of charge and its interaction with magnetic fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the right-hand rule in detail with various examples
  • Learn about vector cross products and their applications in physics
  • Explore the Lorentz force law and its implications for charged particles
  • Investigate the behavior of charged particles in different magnetic field configurations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the behavior of charged particles in magnetic fields.

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Homework Statement



A positive charge is moving straight ahead in a magnetic field going out of page. What is the direction of force on the positively charged particle?

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that you use the right hand rule where fingers show direction of force. But I'm confused because my fingers keep pointing up in one direction and then down in the other so I'm very confused.
 
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So the magnetic force is \vec{F} = q\vec{v}\times \vec{B}
q is the positive charge. I do not know what straight ahed means, I assume that you have a sketch. Your thumb on the right hand shall be in the direction of the velocity and your index finger along the magnetic field, then your middle finger will give the force direction since the charge is positive.
Alternatively you could define your vectors and calculate a crossproduct i.e. define a coordinate system.
 

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