If the magnetic field is parallel to the positive $y$-axis and the charged particle is moving along the positive $x$-axis (Figure),which way would the Lorentz force be for
$(a)$ an electron (negative charge),
$(b)$ a proton (positive charge).

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) The Lorentz force on a moving charge is given by $F = q(v \times B)$.
Here,the velocity vector $v$ is along the positive $x$-axis,i.e.,$v = v\hat{i}$.
The magnetic field $B$ is along the positive $y$-axis,i.e.,$B = B\hat{j}$.
The cross product $v \times B$ is $(\hat{i} \times \hat{j}) = \hat{k}$,which is along the positive $z$-axis.
$(a)$ For an electron,the charge $q = -e$. Thus,the force $F = -e(vB\hat{k}) = -evB\hat{k}$. The force is along the negative $z$-axis.
$(b)$ For a proton,the charge $q = +e$. Thus,the force $F = +e(vB\hat{k}) = +evB\hat{k}$. The force is along the positive $z$-axis.

Explore More

Similar Questions

What is the behavior of a charged particle moving in a region where the electric field $\vec{E}$ and magnetic field $\vec{B}$ are perpendicular to each other?

$A$ charge $q$ is released in the presence of an electric field $(E)$ and a magnetic field $(B)$. After some time,its velocity is $v$. Then:

Write the Lorentz force equation.

If a charged particle moves unaccelerated through a region containing both electric and magnetic fields,which of the following must be true?

In a certain region,static electric and magnetic fields exist. The magnetic field is given by $\vec B = B_0(\hat i + 2\hat j - 4\hat k)$. If a test charge moving with a velocity $\vec v = v_0(3\hat i - \hat j + 2\hat k)$ experiences no force in that region,then the electric field in the region,in $SI$ units,is

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo