Theoretical Uniform Magnetic and Electric Field

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SUMMARY

A charged particle can move through a region with both a uniform electric field and a uniform magnetic field at a constant velocity only if the electric and magnetic fields are oriented in opposite directions. This conclusion is based on the understanding that the electric field accelerates the particle, while the magnetic field alters its direction without changing its speed. The correct answer to the posed question is option B, which states that the electric and magnetic fields must point in opposite directions. This ensures that the forces acting on the particle balance each other out, allowing for constant velocity motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric fields and their effects on charged particles
  • Knowledge of magnetic fields and their influence on particle motion
  • Familiarity with the Lorentz force equation
  • Basic principles of classical mechanics related to velocity and acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Lorentz force equation and its implications for charged particles in electric and magnetic fields
  • Explore the concept of electromagnetic force balance in charged particle dynamics
  • Learn about the applications of electric and magnetic fields in particle accelerators
  • Investigate the role of charge polarity in the motion of charged particles in fields
USEFUL FOR

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

Yosty22
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Homework Statement



A charged particle moves through a region of space that has both a uniform electric field and a uniform magnetic field. In order for the particle to move through this region at a constant velocity,
A)The electric and magnetic fields must point in the same direction
B)The electric and magnetic fields must point in opposite directions.
C)The electric and magnetic fields must point in perpendicular directions.
D)The answer depends on the sign of the particle's electric charge.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I was very confused by this one. I know that the electric field can cause a particle to speed up, but a magnetic field can only change the directional component of the velocity, but the speed doesn't change. I was thinking it would have to be B, but I really have no idea. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
 
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Yosty22 said:

Homework Statement



A charged particle moves through a region of space that has both a uniform electric field and a uniform magnetic field. In order for the particle to move through this region at a constant velocity,
A)The electric and magnetic fields must point in the same direction
B)The electric and magnetic fields must point in opposite directions.
C)The electric and magnetic fields must point in perpendicular directions.
D)The answer depends on the sign of the particle's electric charge.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I was very confused by this one. I know that the electric field can cause a particle to speed up, but a magnetic field can only change the directional component of the velocity, but the speed doesn't change. I was thinking it would have to be B, but I really have no idea. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.

There is a Relevant Equation that you should have listed. Do you know what it is? Does referring to it explicitly help?
 

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