📚 Topic Summary
When a charged particle enters a uniform magnetic field, it experiences a force perpendicular to both its velocity and the magnetic field direction. This force, given by the Lorentz force law, $F = qvB\sin(\theta)$, causes the particle to move in a circular or helical path, depending on the angle between the velocity and the magnetic field. The radius of this path is determined by the balance between the magnetic force and the centripetal force required for circular motion.
Understanding the interplay between charge, velocity, magnetic field strength, and the resulting motion is crucial. Remember, if the velocity is parallel to the magnetic field, there's no magnetic force, and the particle moves in a straight line. These principles are fundamental in various applications, from mass spectrometers to particle accelerators. Let's test your knowledge!
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Lorentz Force |
A. The force that keeps an object moving in a circle. |
| 2. Magnetic Field |
B. The force on a charged particle due to electromagnetic fields. |
| 3. Centripetal Force |
C. The path a charged particle takes when its velocity is at an angle to the magnetic field. |
| 4. Helical Path |
D. A region of space where a magnetic force is experienced. |
| 5. Uniform Magnetic Field |
E. A magnetic field with constant magnitude and direction. |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
A charged particle moving _______ to a uniform magnetic field experiences a force that is _______ to both the velocity of the particle and the magnetic field. This force causes the particle to move in a _______ path. The _______ of this path depends on the charge and velocity of the particle, as well as the strength of the magnetic field. If the velocity is parallel to the magnetic field, the magnetic force is _______.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine you are designing a mass spectrometer. How would you use the principles of charged particle motion in a uniform magnetic field to separate ions with different mass-to-charge ratios? Explain the relationship between the radius of the circular path, the mass-to-charge ratio, and the magnetic field strength.