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.

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