If the direction of initial velocity of the charged particle is neither along nor perpendicular to that of magnetic field then the orbit will be:
Correct answer: B. Helix
- A. Circle
- B. Helix
- C. Ellipse
- D. Straight line
Explanation
The charged particle has a velocity that is neither perpendicular nor parallel (along) to the magnetic field, i.e it is moving with an angle smaller than 90 to the horizontal. The particle would have created a circular path if it was perpendicular to the field, and would experience no force (straight path) if it was parallel to the field. The charged particle in this case experiences the effects of both cases as it is in between the two. Thus it follows two paths: the circular path and the straight path at once, thus creating a helical shape as it moves along the field.
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About Charged Particle in a Magnetic Field
A charged particle moving through a magnetic field experiences the Lorentz force, which is perpendicular to both its velocity and the field. The motion may be circular or helical, with questions involving radius, angular frequency, time period, and work done. A stationary charge feels no magnetic force.
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