What is the Radius of an Electron Trajectory in a Magnetic Field?

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SUMMARY

The radius of an electron trajectory in a magnetic field can be determined using the formula r = \frac{\sqrt{2mV/e}}{B}. Electrons, with mass m and charge -e, gain kinetic energy when accelerated through a potential difference V. The resulting velocity can be derived from the energy equation Ve, which is essential for calculating the radius of the trajectory in the magnetic field B.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of classical mechanics, specifically Newton's second law.
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic theory, particularly the Lorentz force.
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy equations and potential difference concepts.
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations and solving for variables.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Lorentz force and its application in charged particle motion.
  • Learn about energy conservation in electric fields and its impact on particle acceleration.
  • Explore the relationship between potential difference and kinetic energy in charged particles.
  • Investigate the effects of magnetic fields on charged particles in circular motion.
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Students in physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism and mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to electron trajectories in magnetic fields.

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Homework Statement



Electrons (mass m, charge –e) are accelerated from rest through a potential difference V and are then deflected by a magnetic field B that is perpendicular to their velocity. Find the radius of the resulting electron trajectory.

Homework Equations


F=\dfrac{mv^2}{r} F=qvB

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't know where to start with this. The electron moves through the potential difference, and presumably gains kinetic energy, but I don't know how to express this in the equations above to get an answer.

Help appreciated.
 
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I am assuming that the e is accelerated through a gap across which there is a potential difference V. What is the width of the gap?
 
grzz said:
I am assuming that the e is accelerated through a gap across which there is a potential difference V. What is the width of the gap?

That's all the info I'm given; I've literally copied and pasted the question.

I'm not being asked to give a numerical answer though. It's a multiple choice question, and this is apparently the answer:

\frac{\sqrt{2mV/e}}{B}
 
The p.d. gives an energy of Ve to the electron.

From this one can find the resulting velocity of the electron.
 
grzz said:
The p.d. gives an energy of Ve to the electron.

From this one can find the resulting velocity of the electron.

Aha! Got it. Thanks for the help :)
 

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