Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Force on a moving charge
Force on a moving charge — practice question
A sphere with mass $1.6 \times 10^{-10}\,\text{kg}$ carries a charge of $+0.27\,\text{nC}$. It lies in a uniform electric field acting vertically upwards, as illustrated by the side view in Fig. 2.1. The electric force on the sphere keeps it at one fixed vertical level in a horizontal plane. A uniform magnetic field is present in the same region as the electric field. The sphere travels at $0.78\,\text{m s}^{-1}$ in the horizontal plane. This magnetic field makes the sphere follow a circular path of radius $3.4\,\text{m}$, as shown in the view from above in Fig. 2.2.
(a(i))[1]
Determine the direction in which the uniform magnetic field acts.
(a(ii))[2]
Explain why the motion of the sphere in the horizontal plane is circular.
(b)[2]
Calculate the strength of the uniform electric field.
(c)[3]
By considering the magnetic force on the sphere, show that the flux density of the uniform magnetic field is $0.14\,\text{T}$.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “The field is vertically downwards.” …