Question

An alpha particle travels toward the top of the page. There is a magnetic field B directed out of the page. Determine the direction of the magnetic force on the alpha particle points.

Answer 1

The direction of the magnetic force on an alpha particle traveling toward the top of the page in a magnetic field directed out of the page is to the left.

Step-by-step explanation:

The direction of the magnetic force on an alpha particle can be determined using the right-hand rule. In this case, the alpha particle is traveling toward the top of the page and there is a magnetic field directed out of the page. Using the right-hand rule, you can point your thumb up the page, and your fingers will change orientation until they point into the page. This is the direction of the applied magnetic field. Since the alpha particle is positively charged, the magnetic force will be perpendicular to both the velocity of the alpha particle and the magnetic field, pointing to the left.