What is electron cyclotron frequency?

In summary, the electron cyclotron frequency is the number of revolutions per second an electron makes in its orbit in a magnetic field. It is calculated using the electron's charge, the strength of the magnetic field, and its mass. This orbit is often referred to as the "cyclotron" orbit, although the reason for this name is unclear.
  • #1
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Can somebody explain the electron cyclotron frequency with minimum math please.
thanks.
 
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  • #2
It is the number of revolutions per second of the electron.
 
  • #3
pam said:
It is the number of revolutions per second of the electron.

Thats it. Revolutions around what? the nucleus? why is it called the electron-cyclotron?
 
  • #4
The electron cyclotron frequency refers to an electron's orbit in a magnetic field. The frequency of this orbit is given as eB/m where e is elementary charge, B is magnetic field strength and m is mass of electron. The radius of this orbit (either called the cyclotron radius or the Larmor radius) depends on the kinetic energy of the electron perpendicular to the magnetic field and is given by m*u_perp/(eB) where u_perp is the velocity of an electron perpendicular to the magnetic field.

Why it is called the "cyclotron" I am not sure. However, it is always called cyclotron when referring to this kind of motion, which is typically the smallest orbit and the highest frequency, as opposed to other "guiding center" orbits (e.g. magnetron) an electron can have in magnetic confinement devices.
 

1. What is electron cyclotron frequency?

The electron cyclotron frequency is the frequency at which an electron moves in a circular motion when subjected to a magnetic field. It is a fundamental physical constant that determines the behavior of electrons in a magnetic field.

2. How is electron cyclotron frequency calculated?

The electron cyclotron frequency can be calculated using the formula f = eB/m, where e is the charge of an electron, B is the strength of the magnetic field, and m is the mass of the electron. The resulting value is usually in the range of tens of gigahertz to terahertz.

3. What is the significance of electron cyclotron frequency in plasma physics?

Electron cyclotron frequency plays a crucial role in plasma physics as it determines the frequency at which electrons in a plasma oscillate in a magnetic field. This frequency is used to calculate the plasma density and temperature, as well as to study the behavior of plasma particles in fusion reactors and other plasma-based technologies.

4. How does electron cyclotron frequency impact particle acceleration?

Electron cyclotron frequency is often used in particle accelerators to control the motion of electrons and accelerate them to high energies. By manipulating the magnetic field strength, the frequency of the electrons' circular motion can be adjusted, allowing for precise control of their acceleration.

5. Is electron cyclotron frequency the same for all electrons?

No, the electron cyclotron frequency can vary depending on the strength of the magnetic field and the mass of the electron. In addition, the presence of other charged particles, such as ions, can also affect the frequency. However, for a given set of conditions, the electron cyclotron frequency will be the same for all electrons within a plasma.

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