Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Force on a moving charge

Force on a moving charge — practice question

A conducting strip is shown in Fig. 8.1, with its face QRLK at right angles to a uniform magnetic field of flux density $B$. Electrons enter the strip moving at right angles to face PQKJ.
(a(i))[1]

For the free electrons moving in the slice, state the direction of the force on an electron due to the electron’s motion in the magnetic field.

(a(ii))[1]

Using the labels on Fig. 8.1, identify the faces between which a potential difference is produced.

(b)[2]

Explain why the potential difference in (a)(ii) reaches a maximum value.

(c)[2]

The number of free electrons per unit volume in the slice of material is $1.3 \times 10^{29}\,\text{m}^{-3}$. The thickness $PQ$ of the slice is $0.10\,\text{mm}$. The magnetic flux density $B$ is $4.6 \times 10^{-3}\,\text{T}$. Calculate the potential difference across the slice for a current of $6.3 \times 10^{-4}\,\text{A}$.

(d)[2]

The slice in part (c) is a metal. Using your answer to part (c), suggest why Hall probes are generally made from semiconductors rather than metals.

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