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VICPhysicsQuick questions
Unit 3: How do fields explain motion and electricity?
Quick questions on Magnetic fields and the Lorentz force on charges: VCE Physics Unit 3
9short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is the magnetic field model?Show answer
A magnetic field is a vector at each point in space, measured in tesla (T). Field lines run from the north pole of a magnet to its south pole externally (and from south to north inside the magnet, forming closed loops). They never start or end on a charge; magnetic monopoles do not exist.
What is force on a moving charge?Show answer
A charged particle moving with velocity through a magnetic field experiences a force:
What is circular motion of a charged particle in a uniform ?Show answer
When a charged particle moves perpendicular to a uniform , the constant magnitude of supplies the centripetal force:
What is bar magnet?Show answer
Field lines emerge from the north pole, curve around, and enter the south pole. The field is strongest near the poles.
What is straight current-carrying wire?Show answer
The field forms concentric circles around the wire. The direction is given by the right-hand grip rule: thumb in the direction of conventional current, fingers curl in the direction of .
What is solenoid?Show answer
A long coil of wire carrying current. Inside the solenoid the field is uniform and parallel to the axis (like a bar magnet's interior). Outside, the field resembles that of a bar magnet, with one end acting as north and the other as south.
What is q1?Show answer
State the magnitude and direction of the magnetic force on a charged particle moving perpendicular to a magnetic field. [2 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
A proton travels at m s perpendicular to a T field. Calculate (a) the force on the proton, and (b) the radius of its circular path. [4 marks]
What is q3?Show answer
Refer to the Synchrotron dipole magnets. (a) Calculate the magnetic force on an electron of momentum kg m s in a T field. (b) Determine the orbit radius.