What is the Direction of Magnetic Force?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the direction of the magnetic force exerted on charged particles using the Lorentz force law. Participants confirm that the force vector is perpendicular to the magnetic field (B) and utilize the right-hand rule (RHR) to ascertain the direction of the force. The equation discussed is the Lorentz force law, Q(E + u x B), emphasizing the importance of charge sign in determining force direction. Additionally, the relationship between magnetic field (B) and magnetic field intensity (H) is clarified, highlighting that B is proportional to H through the constant μ.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Lorentz force law (Q(E + u x B))
  • Familiarity with the right-hand rule (RHR) for vector direction determination
  • Knowledge of magnetic fields (B) and magnetic field intensity (H)
  • Basic concepts of charged particle dynamics in electromagnetic fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the Lorentz force law in various electromagnetic scenarios
  • Practice using the right-hand rule with different configurations of charged particles and magnetic fields
  • Explore the relationship between magnetic field (B) and magnetic field intensity (H) in more detail
  • Investigate the effects of charge polarity on force direction in electromagnetic contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of charged particles in magnetic fields.

DODGEVIPER13
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Homework Statement


Assuming the following directions of the charged particles velocity and magnetic field indicate the direction of the magnetic force exerted on the particle?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


The force vector is perpendicular to the B field and the right hand rule states the charge is out of the page so would the vector be down?
 

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DODGEVIPER13 said:

Homework Statement


Assuming the following directions of the charged particles velocity and magnetic field indicate the direction of the magnetic force exerted on the particle?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


The force vector is perpendicular to the B field and the right hand rule states the charge is out of the page so would the vector be down?

Well, since the picture is posted sideways, it's hard to know what you mean by "down". :smile:

What equation should you use in this problem? It's an equation that you should get very familiar and comfortable with. And does the sign of the charge make a difference in force direction?
 
Lorentz force law Q(E+uxB) and you if the sign is negative it will be towards it if positive outwards
 
DODGEVIPER13 said:
Lorentz force law Q(E+uxB) and you if the sign is negative it will be towards it if positive outwards

That's the correct equation and you have the correct understanding/intuition. Does that mean you can solve the question now?
 
Is H analogous to B so it should be perpendicular to H field?
 
DODGEVIPER13 said:
Is H analogous to B so it should be perpendicular to H field?

Yes. B = \mu H

So B and H are co-linear, and differ by the constant \mu
 
Ok we'll I guess it would be easier to answer this with RHR which would be out of the page right? In which case I could draw a circle with a dot in it and just write found by RHR
 

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