If a proton, alpha particle and photon moving with the same velocity enter in uniform magnetic field, then which particle will deflect more?

Correct answer: A. Proton

  • A. Proton
  • B. Alpha particle
  • C. Photon
  • D. All of these

Explanation

A: A proton has a charge-mass ratio of 1 C/amu. B: An alpha particle has a charge-mass ratio of 2/4=1/2 C/amu. C and D can be eliminated right away because electromagnetic rays carry no charge and no mass (photons are associated with electromagnetic waves).The formula for radius of deflection is e/m = v/BrWe can say that the radius of deflection is inversely proportional to the charge-mass ratio. Hence, a proton has a smaller radius of deflection (this means that it turns sharply and is hence deflected more) than the alpha particle. Therefore, A is correct.

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About Electromagnetism

Magnetic flux density and magnetic flux describe the strength of a magnetic field and the field passing through a surface. A charged particle moving through a magnetic field experiences a force perpendicular to its velocity and may follow circular or helical motion, depending on the angle between velocity and field.

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