Physics Flashcards
1
Q
Why does the electron move in a helical path in a magnetic field?
A
The component of velocity along the field experiences zero force so electrons move at constant velocity along the field.
The component of velocity perpendicular to the field experiences a magnetic force, which is always perpendicular to velocity.
Magnetic force provides the centripetal force so electrons move in a circular direction.
Combining the two components of velocities, the resultant path is helical.
