Question

How can the motion of a charged particle be used to distinguish between a magnetic and an electric field?

a) In a magnetic field, the charged particle experiences a force perpendicular to its velocity, while in an electric field, the force is parallel to the velocity.

b) In an electric field, the charged particle experiences a force perpendicular to its velocity, while in a magnetic field, the force is parallel to the velocity.

c) Both electric and magnetic fields cause forces parallel to the velocity of the charged particle.

d) Both electric and magnetic fields cause forces perpendicular to the velocity of the charged particle.

Answer 1

To distinguish between a magnetic and electric field based on a charged particle's motion, look at the direction of the force relative to the velocity. In a magnetic field, the force is perpendicular, while in an electric field, it is parallel.

Step-by-step explanation:

The motion of a charged particle can be used to distinguish between a magnetic and an electric field by observing the force exerted on the particle and the direction of its velocity. In a magnetic field, the charged particle experiences a force that is perpendicular to both its velocity and the magnetic field, leading to a curved path or circular motion if the velocity is at a right angle to the magnetic field. Conversely, in an electric field, the force experienced by the charged particle is parallel to the direction of the electric field lines, which can result in either acceleration or deceleration of the particle along the field lines depending on the charge.

The correct option to the given question is: a) In a magnetic field, the charged particle experiences a force perpendicular to its velocity, while in an electric field, the force is parallel to the velocity.