Question

If a proton has velocity to the West and magnetic force downwards, in which direction does the magnetic field point? The answer choices are north south East west up or down.

Answer 1

Using the right-hand rule with the proton's westward velocity and the downward magnetic force, the magnetic field points North.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a proton has velocity to the West and the magnetic force it experiences is downwards, we can use the right-hand rule to determine the direction of the magnetic field. By pointing our fingers in the direction of the proton's velocity (to the West) and curling them towards the direction of the applied force (downwards), the thumb points in the direction of the magnetic field. Therefore, following this rule, the magnetic field points North. If a proton is moving to the West and experiences a magnetic force downward, we can apply the right-hand rule to determine the direction of the magnetic field. The right-hand rule states that if you point your thumb in the direction of the current (velocity in this case), and your index finger in the direction of the magnetic field, then your middle finger will point in the direction of the force. In this scenario, if the proton is moving to the West (left), and the magnetic force is downward, you would point your thumb to the left and your index finger downward. Your middle finger, which represents the magnetic field, will point to the North. Therefore, the correct answer is North.