PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6:
Magnetic field
(7 Hours)

1
 PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Learning Outcome:
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6.1 Magnetic field (1 hour)

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Define magnetic field.
 Identify magnetic field sources.
 Sketch the magnetic field lines.

2
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

6.1 Magnetic field

 is defined as a region around a magnet where a magnetic
force can be experienced.
experienced
 A stationary electric charge is surrounded by an electric
field only.
only
 When an electric charge moves,
moves it is surrounded by an
electric field and a magnetic field.
field The motion of the electric
charge produces the magnetic field.
field
 Magnetic field has two poles, called north (N) and south (S).
(S)
This magnetic poles are always found in pairs whereas a
single magnetic pole has never been found.
 Like poles (N-N or S-S) repel each other.
 Opposite poles (N-S) attract each other.

3
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.1.1 Magnetic field lines
 Magnetic field lines are used to represent a magnetic field.
 By convention, magnetic field lines leave the north pole and
enters the south pole of a magnet.
 Magnetic field lines can be represented by straight lines or
curves. The tangent to a curved field line at a point
indicates the direction of the magnetic field at that point
as shown in Figure 6.1.
P direction of magnetic field
at point P.
Figure 6.1
 Magnetic field can be represented by crosses or by dotted
circles as shown in Figures 6.2a and 6.2b.
X X X X

X X X X

Figure 6.2a : magnetic field lines Figure 6.2b : magnetic field lines
enter the page perpendicularly leave the page perpendicularly 4
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 A uniform field is represented by parallel lines of force.
force This
means that the number of lines passing perpendicularly
through unit area at all cross-sections in a magnetic field
are the same as shown in Figure 6.3.

unit cross-sectional area

Figure 6.3
 A non-uniform field is represented by non-parallel lines. The
number of magnetic field lines varies at different unit cross-
sections as shown in Figure 6.4.

5
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

weaker field in A2
A1 A2

stronger field in A1
Figure 6.4
 The number of lines per unit cross-sectional area is
proportional to the magnitude of the magnetic field.
field
 Magnetic field lines do not intersect one another.

6
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.1.2 Magnetic field lines pattern
 The pattern of the magnetic field lines can be determined by
using two methods.
 compass needles (shown in Figure 6.5)

Figure 6.5: plotting a magnetic field line of a bar

magnetic.
 sprinkling iron filings on paper (shown in Figure 6.6).

Figure 6.6: thin iron filing indicate the magnetic field lines.
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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 Figures 6.7 shows the various pattern of magnetic field lines
around the magnets.
a. Bar magnet

Figure 6.7a
b. Horseshoe or U magnet

8
Figure 6.7b
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
c. Two bar magnets (unlike pole)
pole -
attractive

Figure 6.7c
d. Two bar magnets (like poles)
poles - repulsive

Neutral point (point where

Figure 6.7d the resultant magnetic
force is zero).
zero
9
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.1.3 Earth’s magnetic field
 The Earth’s magnetic field is like that of a giant bar magnet as
illustrated in Figure 6.8 with a pole near each geographic pole of
the Earth.  The magnetic poles are tilted away
from the rotational axis by an angle of
11.5°.
 Since the north pole of a compass
needle (Figure 6.8) points toward the
north magnetic pole of the Earth, and
since opposite attract, it follows that
the north geographical pole of the
Earth is actually near the south
pole of the Earth’s magnetic field.
field
 Figure 6.8 also shows that the field
lines are essentially horizontal
(parallel to the Earth’s surface) near
the equator but enter or leave the
Figure 6.8 Earth vertically near the poles.
poles 10
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.1.4 Magnetization of a Soft Iron
Using the permanent magnet
 One permanent magnet
 A permanent magnet is bring near to the soft iron and
touching the surface of the soft iron by following the path in
the Figure 6.9.

Figure 6.9 N S
 This method is called induced magnetization.
magnetization
 The arrows in the soft iron represent the magnetization
direction with the arrowhead being the north pole and arrow
tail being the south pole. It is also known as domains ( the
tiny magnetized region because of spin magnetic
moment of the electron).
electron 11
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 In an unmagnetized piece of soft iron, these domains are
arranged randomly but it is aligned in one direction when the
soft iron becomes magnetized.
 The soft iron becomes a temporary magnet with its south
pole facing the north pole of the permanent magnet and vice
versa as shown in Figure 6.9.
 Two permanent magnets
 Bring and touch the first magnet to one end of the soft iron
and another end with the second magnet as shown in Figure
6.10.

S NN S
Figure 6.10
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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Using the electrical circuit
 A soft iron is placed inside a solenoid (a long coil of wire
consisting of many loops of wire) that is connected to the power
supply as shown in Figure 6.11.

N S
I I
Current - Current - clockwise
anticlockwise Switch, S

Figure 6.11
 When the switch S is closed, the current I flows in the solenoid
and produces magnetic field.
 The directions of the fields associated with the solenoid can be
found by viewing the current flows in the solenoid from both
end or applying the right hand grip rule as shown in Figure
13
6.11.
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 Other examples:

S N S N
I I
Note: I I
Thumb – north pole
Other fingers –
direction of current Figure 6.12a Figure 6.12b
in solenoid.
solenoid
 If you drop a permanent magnet on the floor or strike it with a
hammer, you may jar the domains into randomness.
randomness The
magnet can thus lose some or all of its magnetism.
 Heating a magnet too can cause a loss of magnetism.
 The permanent magnet also can be demagnetized by placing it
inside a solenoid that connected to an alternating source.
source

14
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.1.5 Magnetic flux density, B
 is defined as the magnetic flux per unit area across an
area at right angles to the magnetic field.
field
Mathematically,
Φ
B= (6.1)
A⊥
where
Φ : magnetic flux
A⊥ : area at right angles to the magnetic field
 It also known as magnetic induction (magnetic field intensity
OR strength)
strength
 It is a vector quantity and its direction follows the direction of
the magnetic field.
field
 Its unit is tesla (T) OR weber per metre squared (Wb m−2).
 Unit conversion :
1 T = 1 Wb m −2 = 10 4 gauss(G ) 15
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 1 :
The direction of any magnetic field is taken to be in the direction
that an Earth-calibrated compass points. Explain why this mean
that magnetic field lines must leave from the north pole of a
permanent bar magnet and enter its south pole.
Solution :
 Near the north pole of a permanent bar magnet, the north
pole of a compass will point away from the bar magnet so
the field lines leave the north pole.
 Near the south pole of a permanent bar magnet, the north
pole of a compass will point toward the bar magnet so the
field lines enter the south pole.

16
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.1 :
1. Sketch the magnetic field lines pattern around the bar
magnets for following cases.
a.

b.

17
 PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Learning Outcome:
6.2 Magnetic produced by current-carrying
www.kmph.matrik.edu.my/physic s

conductor (1 hour)
At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Apply magnetic field formula
 for a long straight wire,
μ0 I
B=
2πr
 for a circular coil,
μ0 I
B=
2R
 for a solenoid.
B = μ0 nI 18
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

6.2 Magnetic field produced by current –

carrying conductor
 When a current flows in a conductor wire or coil,
coil the
magnetic field will be produced.
produced
 The direction of magnetic field around the wire or coil can be
determined by using the right hand grip rule as shown in
Figure 6.13.

Note:
Thumb – direction of current
Other fingers – direction of magnetic
field (clockwise OR
anticlockwise)
anticlockwise

Figure 6.13
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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.2.1 Magnetic field of a long straight conductor
(wire) carrying current
 The magnetic field lines pattern around a straight conductor
carrying current is shown in Figures 6.14 and 6.15.

I  
B B
I
OR

B 
I B

Figure 6.14 Current out of the page

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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

I 
 B
B
 OR XI
B
I 
B
Figure 6.15 X Current into the page

 Consider a straight conductor (wire) carrying a current I is

placed in vacuum as shown in Figure 6.16.

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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

P

r XB

into the page (paper)

Figure 6.16 I
 The magnitude of magnetic flux density (magnetic field
intensity), B at point P at distance r from the wire carrying
current is given by
μ0 I
B= (6.2)
2πr
−7
where μ0 : permeability of free space = 4π × 10 T m A −1
r : distance of a point from a straight conductor (wire)
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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

6.2.2 Magnetic field of a circular coil

 The magnetic field lines pattern around a circular coil carrying
current is shown in Figures 6.17.

N N
I X I
OR
S S
I I

Figure 6.17 23
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 Consider a circular shaped conductor with radius R that carries
a current I as shown in Figure 6.18.
 The magnitude of magnetic field
intensity B at point O (centre of
the circular coil or loop)
loop , is
given by

R μ0 NI
O
B= (6.3)
2R

where μ0 : permeability of free space

R : radius of the circular coil
N : number of coils (loops)
I : current
Figure 6.18

24
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.2.3 Magnetic field of a solenoid
 A solenoid is an electrical device in which a long wire has
been wound into a succession of closely spaced loops with
geometry of a helix.
helix
 The magnetic field lines pattern around a solenoid carrying
current is shown in Figure 6.19.

N S

I I
Figure 6.19 25
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

OR

XI XI XI XI

N S
I I I I

26
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 The magnitude of magnetic field intensity at the centre
(mid-point/ inside) of N turn solenoid is given by
μ0 NI
B=
l B = μ0 nI (6.4)
N
and =n
l
 The magnitude of magnetic field intensity at the end of N
turn solenoid is given by
1
B = μ0 nI (6.5)
2
where n : number of turns per unit length

27
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 2 :
Two long straight wires are placed parallel to each other and carrying
the same current I. Sketch the magnetic field lines pattern around both
wires
a. when the currents are in the same direction.
b. when the currents are in opposite direction.
Solution :
a.

I I

I I

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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution :
a. OR

I I

29
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution :
b.
I
I

I
I
OR

I XI

30
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

Example 3 :
A long wire (X) carrying a current of 50 A is placed parallel to and
5.0 cm away from a similar wire (Y) carrying a current of 10 A.
a. Determine the magnitude and direction of the magnetic flux
density at a point midway between the wires :
i. when the current are in the same direction.
ii. when they are in opposite direction.
b. When the currents are in the same direction there is a point
somewhere between X and Y at which the magnetic flux density
is zero. How far from X is this point ?
(Given µ 0 = 4π × 10−7 H m−1)

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PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I X = 50 A; d = 5.0 × 10 −2 m; I Y = 10 A
a. i. d  
B BX
X

A r A
rX OR rX rY
Y
IX IY
 
BY BY
d
IX IY rX = rY = = 2.5 × 10 − 2 m
2
By using the equation of magnetic field at any point near the
straight wire, then at point A
Magnitude of BX :
BX =
μ0 I X
=
( 4π × 10 )50
−7

2π ( 2.5 × 10 )
BX −2
2πrX
BX = 4.0 × 10 −4 T
Direction : into the page OR upwards 32
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I X = 50 A; d = 5.0 × 10 −2 m; I Y = 10 A
a. i. Magnitude of BY :

BY =
μ0 I Y
BY =
(
4π × 10 −7 10 )
2πrY (
2π 2.5 × 10 − 2 )
BY = 8.0 × 10 −5 T
Direction : out of page OR downwards
Therefore
 the totalmagnetic flux density at point A is
BA = BX + BY
BA = − BX + BY BA = −4.0 × 10 −4 + 8.0 × 10 −5
Note:
BA = −3.2 × 10 −4 T
Sign convention of B:
Direction : into the page OR upwards
Out of page ⇒ positive (+)
Into the page ⇒ negative (−)

33
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I X = 50 A; d = 5.0 × 10 −2 m; I Y = 10 A
a. ii. d  
B
 X  BX
BY BY
A r A
rX OR rX rY X
Y
IX IY

IX IY
By using the equation of magnetic field at any point near the
straight wire, then at point A
Magnitude of BX :

=
( 4π × 10 )50
−7
BX = 4.0 × 10 −4 T
2π ( 2.5 × 10 )
BX −2
Direction : into the page OR
upwards 34
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I X = 50 A; d = 5.0 × 10 −2 m; I Y = 10 A
a. ii. Magnitude of BY :

BY =
( )
4π × 10 −7 10
(
2π 2.5 × 10 − 2)
BY = 8.0 × 10 −5 T
Direction : into the page OR upwards
Therefore
 the  resultant
 magnetic flux density at point A is
BA = BX + BY
BA = − BX − BY BA = −4.0 × 10 −4 − 8.0 × 10 −5
BA = −4.8 × 10 −4 T
Direction : into the page OR upwards

35
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I X = 50 A; d = 5.0 × 10 −2 m; I Y = 10 A
b. d  
B BX
X

C C
rX rY OR rX rY
 IX  IY
BY BY
rX = r
IX IY rY = d − r
Since the resultant magnetic flux density at point C is zero
thus   
BC = BX + BY
0 = − BX + BY
μ0 I X μ0 I Y
BX = BY where BX = and BY =
2πrX 2πrY
36
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I X = 50 A; d = 5.0 × 10 −2 m; I Y = 10 A
b. μ0 I X μ0 I Y
=
2πrX 2πrY
IX IY
=
r (d − r)
50 10
=
r (
5.0 × 10 −2 − r )
r = 4.2 × 10 −2 m

37
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 4 :
Two long straight wires are oriented perpendicular to the page as
shown in Figure 6.20.

The current in one wire is I1Figure

= 3.0 A 6.20
pointing into the page and the
current in the other wire is I2= 4.0 A pointing out of page. Determine the
magnitude and direction of the nett magnetic field intensity at point P.
(Given µ 0 = 4π × 10−7 H m−1)

38
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I1 = 3.0 A; I 2 = 4.0 A; r1 = 5.0 × 10 −2 m
P
 r2 = (5.0 ×10 ) + (5.0 ×10 )
−2 2 −2 2

θ B1 r2 = 7.1 × 10 −2 m
 r1 θ r2 r1 5.0 × 10 −2
B2 cos θ = =
r2 7.1 × 10 − 2
I1 X 5.0 × 10 −2 m I2 cos θ = 0.704
5.0 × 10 −2
sin θ = −2
= 0.704
7.1 × 10
By applying the equation of magnetic field intensity for straight wire,
thus
B1 =
μ I 0 1
=
(
4π × 10 −7 3.0 )
2πr1
B1
(
2π 5.0 × 10 − 2 )
B1 = 1.20 × 10 −5 T
39
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I1 = 3.0 A; I 2 = 4.0 A; r1 = 5.0 × 10 −2 m
and
B2 =
μ0 I 2
=
( 4π × 10 )4.0
−7

2π ( 7.1 × 10 )
B2 −2
2πr2
B2 = 1.13 × 10 −5 T
Vector x-component (T) y-component (T)


B1 B1 = 1.20 × 10 −5 0

 − B2 cos θ − B2 sin θ
B2 ( )
= − 1.13 × 10 −5 ( 0.704 ) ( )
= − 1.13 × 10 −5 ( 0.704 )
= −7.96 × 10 −6 = −7.96 × 10 −6
−6
Vector B x = 1. 20 × 10 −5
− 7. 96 × 10 −6
B y = 0 − 7 .96 × 10
sum = 4.04 × 10 −6
= −7.96 × 10 −6
40
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
−2
Solution : I1 = 3.0 A; I 2 = 4.0 A; r1 = 5.0 × 10 m
Therefore the magnitude of the nett magnetic field intensity at point
P is given by
2 2
B = Bx + B y

= ( 4.04 ×10 ) + ( − 7.96 ×10 )

−6 2 −6 2

B = 8.93 × 10 −6 T
and its direction is

−1 
By  B1
θ = tan   P
 Bx  
 − 7. 96 × 10 −6
 B2 63.1
= tan 
−1
−6 
 
 4.04 × 10  B
θ = −63.1
(297° from +x-axis anticlockwise) OR
41
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 5 :
a. A closely wound circular coil of diameter 10 cm has 500 turns
and carries a current of 2.5 A. Determine the magnitude of the
magnetic field at the centre of the coil.
b. A solenoid of length 1.5 m and 2.6 cm in diameter carries a
current of 18 A. The magnetic field inside the solenoid is
2.3 mT. Calculate the length of the wire forming the solenoid.
(Given µ 0 = 4π × 10−7 T m A−1)
Solution :
10 × 10 −2
a. Given R = = 5.0 × 10 − 2 m; N = 500; I = 2.5 A
2
By applying the equation for magnitude of the magnetic field at
the centre of the circular coil, thus

B=
μ0 NI
B=
( 4π × 10 )( 500) 2.5
−7

2R 2(5.0 × 10 ) −2

B = 1.57 × 10 −2 T 42
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution :
2.6 × 10 −2
b. Given l = 1.5 m; r = = 1.3 × 10 − 2 m; Bi = 2.3 × 10 −3 T;
I = 18 A 2
By applying the equation of magnetic flux density inside the
solenoid, thus
Bi =
μ0 NI
2.3 × 10 −3
=
(
−7
4π × 10 ) N (18)
l 1 .5
N = 153 turns
Since the shaped for each coil in the solenoid is circle, then the

circumference
circumference for =one
2πrturn is (
circumference = 2π 1.3 × 10 −2 )
circumference = 8.17 × 10 −2 m

L =length
Therefore the N × of (
circumfere )
nce the solenoid is
the wire forming

(
L = 153 × 8.17 × 10 −2 )
L = 12.5 m 43
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.2 :
Given µ 0 = 4π × 10−7 T m A−1
1. 10.0 cm
P1
P2 5.0 cm
15.0 cm

5.00 A Figure 6.21 5.00 A

The two wires shown in Figure 6.21 carry currents of 5.00 A in
opposite directions and are separated by 10.0 cm.
a. Sketch the magnetic field lines pattern around both wires.
b. Determine the nett magnetic flux density at points P1 and
P2.
ANS. : 1.33× 10−5 T, out of page; 2.67× 10−6 T, out of page
44
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.2 :
2. X X

Figure 6.22
Four long, parallel power wires each carry 100 A current. A
cross sectional diagram for this wires is a square, 20.0 cm on
each side as shown in Figure 6.22.
a. Sketch the magnetic field lines pattern on the diagram.
b. Determine the magnetic flux density at the centre of the
square.
ANS. : 4.0 × 10−4 T , to the left (180°)

45
 PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Learning Outcome:
6.3 Force on a moving charged particle in a uniform
www.kmph.matrik.edu.my/physic s

magnetic field (1 hour)

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Use formulae:
  
(
F =q v ×B )
 Describe circular motion of a charge in a uniform
magnetic field.
 Use relationship FB = FC.

46
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.3 Force on a moving charged particle
in a uniform magnetic field
6.3.1 Magnetic force
 A stationary electric charge in a magnetic field will not
experience a magnetic force.
force But if the charge is moving with
a velocity, v in a magnetic field, B then it will experience a
magnetic force.
force
 The magnitude of the magnetic force can be calculated by
using the following equation:

F = qvB sin θ (6.6)

where F : magnetic force

B : magnetic flux density
v : velocity of a charge
q : magnitude of the charge


θ : angle between v and B 47
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

( )
In vector form,
form   


F =q v ×B (6.7)

 The direction of the magnetic force can be determined by using

the Fleming’s hand rule.
 Fleming’s right hand rule for negative charge shown in

 Fleming’s left hand rule for positive charge

Figures 6.23
   and 6.24
 F F
B B

 
v v

Note: Figure 6.23 Figure 6.24

Thumb – direction of Force
First finger – direction of Field
Second finger – direction of Velocity 48
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 6 :
Determine the direction of the magnetic force, F exerted on a
charge in the following problems:
a.  b.
+ v 
B 
 v
B −
c. X X X X d. −
− v
X X X
X
 v I
BX X X X
e.

+
v

I
49
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution :
a. By using Fleming’s left hand rule, thus 
F (into the page)

+ v

B
b. By using Fleming’s right hand rule, thus
 
B v

(to the left) F −
c. By using Fleming’s right hand rule, thus
 X X X X
(to the left) F −
X X X
X
 v
BX X X X
50
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution :
d. Using right hand grip rule to determine the direction of magnetic
field produces by the current I on the charge
position. Then apply the Fleming’s right hand rule, thus

 X X X X B
(to the left) F −
X X X
I v
e. Using right hand grip rule to determine the direction of magnetic
field forms by the current I on the charge position. Then apply
the Fleming’s left hand rule,
 thus
F (upwards)

X XB
X X
+
v
X X
I
X X 51
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 7 :
Calculate the magnitude of the force on a proton travelling
5.0× 107 m s−1 in the uniform magnetic flux density of 1.5 Wb m−2, if :
a. the velocity of the proton is perpendicular to the magnetic field.
b. the velocity of the proton makes an angle 50° with the magnetic
field.
(Given the charge of the proton is +1.60× 10−19 C)
Solution : v = 5.0 × 10
7
m s −1 ; B = 1.5 Wb m −2
a. Given θ = 90


Therefore F = qvB sin θ

= (1.60 × 10 )( 5.0 × 10 )(1.5) sin 90
−19 7 

−11
F = 1.20 × 10 N
θ = 50 

F = (1.60 × 10 −19 )( 5.0 × 107 )(1.5) sin 50

b. Given
Hence
−12
F = 9.19 × 10 N 52
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.3.2 Motion of a charged particle in a uniform
magnetic field
 Consider a charged particle moving in a uniform magnetic field
with its velocity perpendicular to the magnetic field.
field
 As the particle enters the region, it will experiences a magnetic
force which the force is perpendicular to the velocity of the
particle. Hence the direction of its velocity changes but the
magnetic force remains perpendicular to the velocity.
 This magnetic force, FB makes the path of the particle is a
circular as shown in Figures 6.25a,
 6.25b, 6.25c and 6.25d.

X X X X v v
v + +
FB 

X X X FB X FB
+ +

 X
F
X B X X
X 
v +
v v
+
X X X X 53
Figure 6.25a Figure 6.25b
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 
v X X X vX
− − 
v
FB  
X X XF X FB −
B −

X X X X  FB 
 v v
v − −
X X X X
Figure 6.25c Figure 6.25d
 Since the path is a circle therefore the magnetic force FB
contributes the centripetal force Fc (nett force) in this motion.
Thus
FB = Fc
mv 2
qvB sin θ = and θ = 90
r
54
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
mv
r= (6.8)
Bq
where m : mass of the charged particle
v : magnitude of the velocity
r : radius of the circular path
q : magnitude of the charged particle
 The period of the circular motion, T makes by the particle is given
by 2π
v = rω and ω =
T
2πr 2πr mv
v= T= and r=
T v Bq
2πm
T= (6.9)
Bq
1
 And the frequency of the circular motion is f =
T 55
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 8 :

A 20.0 cm B
−
Figure 6.26
An electron at point A in Figure 6.26 has a speed v of 2.50 × 106
m s-1. Determine
a. the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field that will cause
the electron to follow the semicircular path from A to B.
b. the time required for the electron to move from A to B.
(Given e=1.60× 10−19 C and me= 9.11× 10−31 kg)

56
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6 −1 −2
Solution : v = 2.50 × 10 m s ; d = 20.0 × 10 m
a. Since the path makes by the electron is a semicircular thus the
the magnitude of the magnetic field is given by
mv d
r= and r=
Be 2
d mv
=
( )(
20.0 × 10 − 2 9.11 × 10 −31 2.50 × 10 6
=
)
2 Be 2 (
B 1.60 × 10 −19 )
B = 1.42 × 10 −4 T
Direction of magnetic field : into the page
OR

v 
B

A F B
−
57
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
−1
6
Solution : v = 2.50 × 10 m s ; d = 20.0 × 10 −2 m
b. The period of the electron is
2π
v = rω and ω=
T
 d  2π 
v =    2.50 × 10 6 =
( 20.0 × 10 )π
−2

 2  T  T
T = 2.51 × 10 −7 s
Since the path is the semicircular then the time required for the
electron moves from A to B is given by
1
t= T
2
1
(
t = 2.51 × 10 −7
2
)
t = 1.26 × 10 −7 s
58
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.3 :
1. Determine the sign of a charge in the following problems.

a.   b. B
F B
 
v F 
v
ANS. : positive; positive
2. Determine the direction of the magnetic force exerted on a
positive charge in each problem below when a switch S is
closed.
a. b.

 
v v
+ +

Switch, S Switch, S

59
ANS. : into the page; out of page
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.3 :
3. An electron experiences the greatest force as it travels
2.9× 106 m s−1 in a magnetic field when it is moving north. The
force is upward and of magnitude 7.2× 10−13 N. Determine the
magnitude and direction of the magnetic field.
(Given the charge of the electron is 1.60× 10−19 C)
(Physics for scientists & engineers ,3rd edition, Giancoli, Q22,
p.705)
ANS. : 1.6 T to the east
4. An electron moving with a speed of 9.1× 105 m s−1 in the
positive x direction experiences zero magnetic force. When it
moves in the positive y direction, it experiences a force of
2.0× 10−13 N that points in the negative z direction. What is the
direction and magnitude of the magnetic field?
(Given e=1.60× 10−19 C and me= 9.11× 10−31 kg)
(Physics, 3rd edition, James S. Walker, Q8, p.762)
ANS. : 1.37 T to the left (in the negative y direction) 60
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.3 :
5. Two charged particles with different speeds move one at a
time through a region of uniform magnetic field. The particles
move in the same direction and experience equal magnetic
forces.
a. If particle 1 has four times the charge of particle 2, which
particle has the greater speed? Explain.
b. Calculate the ratio of the speeds, v1/v2.
(Physics, 3rd edition, James S. Walker, Q9, p.762)
ANS. : 1/4
6. A 12.5 µ C particle of mass 2.80× 10−5 kg moves
perpendicular to a 1.01 T magnetic field in a circular path of
radius 26.8 m.
a. How fast is the particle moving?
b. How long will it take the particle to complete one orbit?
(Physics, 3rd edition, James S. Walker, Q18, p.763)
ANS. : 12.1 m s−1; 13.9 s 61
 PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Learning Outcome:
6.4 Force on a current-carrying conductor in a
www.kmph.matrik.edu.my/physic s

uniform magnetic field (1 hour)

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Use formulae:

(
 
F = I l ×B )

62
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.4 Force on a current-carrying
conductor in a uniform magnetic field
 When a current-carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic
field B, thus a magnetic force will acts on that conductor.
conductor
 The magnitude of the magnetic force exerts on the current-
carrying conductor is given by

F = IlB sin θ (6.10)

In vector form,
form

(
 
F = I l ×B ) (6.11)

where F : magnetic force

B : magnitude of the magnetic flux density
I : current
l : length of the conductor 
θ : angle between direction of I and B 63
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 The direction of the magnetic force can be determined by using
the Fleming’s left hand rule as shown in Figure 6.27.
 
F B Note:
Thumb – direction of Force
I First finger – direction of Field
Second finger – direction of Current
Figure 6.27
 From the equation (6.10),
 the magnetic force on the conductor has its maximum
value when the conductor (and therefore the current) and
the magnetic field are perpendicular (at right angles) to
each other then θ =90° (shown in Figure 6.28a).

64
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

Fmax = IlB sin 90

θ = 90
I Fmax = IlB

B
Figure 6.28a
 the magnetic force on the conductor is zero when the
conductor (and therefore the current) is parallel to the
magnetic field then θ =0° (shown in Figure 6.28b).
B
F = IlB sin 0
θ = 0
I F =0
Note: Figure 6.28b
One tesla is defined as the magnetic flux density of a field in which
a force of 1 newton acts on a 1 metre length of a conductor which
carrying a current of 1 ampere and is perpendicular to the field. 65
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 9 :
Determine the direction of the magnetic force, exerted on a current-
carrying conductor in the following cases.
a. b.
X X X X X X X X

X X X X X X X X

 I  I
X BX X X X
BX X X

Solution :
For both cases, use Fleming’s left hand rule :
a. b.
X X X X X X X X 
 F
(to the left) F X X X X X X X X (to the right)
 I  I
X BX X X X
BX X X

66
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 10 :
A wire of 100 cm long is placed perpendicular to the magnetic field
of 1.20 Wb m−2.
a. Calculate the magnitude of the force on the wire when a current
of 15 A is flowing.
b. For the same current in (a), determine the magnitude of the force
on the wire when its length is extended to 150 cm.
c. If the force on the wire in part (b) is 60× 10−2 N and the current
flows is 12 A, calculate the magnitude of magnetic field was
supplied.
−2
Solution : l = 1.00 m; B = 1.20 Wb m ; θ = 90


a. Given I = 15 A
F = IlB sin θ
= (15)(1.00)(1.20) sin 90
F = 18 N
67
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution :
b. Given I = 15 A; l = 1.50 m
The magnitude of the magnetic force on the wire is given by
F = IlB sin θ
= (15)(1.50)(1.20) sin 90
F = 27 N
c. Given I = 12 A; l = 1.50 m; F = 60 × 10 −2 N
The magnitude of the magnetic field is given by
F = IlB sin θ
60 × 10 −2 = (12)(1.50) B sin 90
B = 3.33 × 10 −2 T

68
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 11 :
A straight horizontal rod of mass 50 g and length 0.5 m is placed in
a uniform magnetic field of 0.2 T perpendicular to the rod. The force
acting on the rod just balances the rod’s weight.
a. Sketch a labelled diagram shows the directions of the current,
magnetic field, weight and force.
b. Calculate the current in the rod.
(Given g = 9.81 m s−2)
−3
Solution : m = 50 × 10 g; l= 0.5 m; B = 0.2 T; θ = 90
a. F B
 I
mg
b. Since the magnetic force acting on the rod just balances the
rod’s
F = therefore
IlB sin θ
(50 ×10 )9.81 = I ( 0.5)( 0.2) sin 90
weight,
−3
mg = IlB sin θ 

I = 4.91 A 69
 PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Learning Outcome:
6.5 Forces between two parallel current-carrying
www.kmph.matrik.edu.my/physic s

conductors (1 hour)
At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Derive force per unit length of two parallel current-
carrying conductors.
 Use formulae:
F μ0 I1 I 2
=
l 2πd
 Define one ampere.

70
PHYSICS CHAPTER
6.5 Forces between two parallel 6current-

carrying conductors
6.5.1 Force per unit length
 Consider two identical straight conductors 1 and 2 carrying
currents I1 and I2 with length l are placed parallel to each other
as shown in Figure 6.29.
1 2
I1 I2 
 B1
F12
P

Q F21

B2
I1 I2
d
Figure 6.29 71
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 The conductors are in vacuum and their separation is d.
 The magnitude of the magnetic flux density, B1 at point P on the
conductor 2 due to the current in the conductor 1 is given by
µ 0 I1
B1 = Direction : into the page
2πd
 Conductor 2 carries a current I2 and in the magnetic field B1 thus
the conductor 2 will experiences a magnetic force, F12.
 The magnitude of F12 is given by
F12 = I 2lB1 sin θ and θ = 90
 µ 0 I1 
= I 2l   sin 90 

 2πd 
µ 0 I1 I 2 l
F12 =
2πd
72
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 The magnitude of F21 is given by
F21 = I1lB2 sin θ and θ = 90
 µ0 I 2 
= I1l   sin 90 

 2πd 
µ 0 I1 I 2 l
F21 =
2πd

 
Conclusion : F = F = F = 0 1 2
µIIl
12 21
(6.12)
2πd
and the type of the force is attractive.
attractive
 From the equation (6.12), thus the force per unit length is given
by
F μ0 I1 I 2
= (6.13)
l 2πd

73
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 If the direction of current in the conductor 2 is change to upside
down as shown in Figure 6.30.
Note: 1 2
 The currents are in the I1 I2 
same direction – 2 B1 
conductors attract P F12
each other. 
 The currents are in Q B2
opposite direction – 2 
conductors repel each F21
other. I1
d I2
Figure 6.30
 The magnitude of F12 and F21 can be determined by using the eq.
(6.12) and their direction can be determined by applying
Fleming’s left hand rule.
Conclusion : Type of the force is repulsive.
repulsive
74
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 12 :
Two long straight parallel wires are placed 0.25 m apart in a
vacuum. Each wire carries a current of 2.4 A in the same direction.
a. Sketch a labelled diagram to show clearly the direction of the
force on each wire.
b. Calculate the force per unit length between the wires.
c. If the current in one of the wires is reduced to 0.64 A, calculate
the current needed in the second wire to maintain the same force
per unit length between the wires as in (b).
(Given µ 0 = 4π × 10−7 T m A−1)
Solution : I1 = I 2 = 2.4 A; d = 0.25 m
a. The diagram is
I1   I2
F21 F12

1 2
d 75
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I1 = I 2 = 2.4 A; d = 0.25 m
b. The force per unit length between the wires is given by
F μ0 I1 I 2
=
F
=
( )
4π ×10 −7 ( 2.4 )( 2.4 )
l 2πd l 2π ( 0.25 )
F
= 4.6 ×10 −6 N m −1
l
c. Given I1 = 0.64 A
Therefore the current needed in the second wire is
F μ0 I1 I 2
=
l 2πd
−6
4.6 ×10 =
4 (
π ×10 −7
( )
0.64 ) I 2
2π ( 0.25 )
I 2 = 8.98 A
76
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.5.2 The ampere
 From the eq. (6.13), if two long straight parallel conductors are
placed 1.0 m apart in a vacuum and carry equal currents of
1.0 A thus the force per unit length that each conductor exerts
on each other is given by
F μ0 I1 I 2
=
l 2πd
=
(
4π ×10 −7 (1)(1))
2π (1)
F
= 2.0 ×10 −7 N m −1
l
 The ampere is defined as the constant current, which
flowing in each of two infinitely long parallel straight
conductors of negligible of cross sectional area separated
by a distance of 1.0 metre in vacuum, would produce a
force per unit length between the conductors of
2.0× 10−7 N m− 1. 77
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.4 :
Given µ 0 = 4π × 10−7 T m A−1
1. A vertical straight conductor Y of length 0.5 m is situated in a
uniform horizontal magnetic field of 0.1 T.
a. Sketch a labelled diagram to show the directions of the
current, field and force.
b. Calculate the force on Y when a current of 4 A is passed
into it.
c. Through what angle must Y be turned in a vertical plane
so that the force on Y is halved?
(Advanced level physics, 7th edition, Nelkon&Parker, Q6, p.336)
ANS. : 0.2 N; 60°
2. A current-carrying conductor experiences no magnetic force
when it is placed in a uniform magnetic field. Explain the
statement.

78
 PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Learning Outcome:
www.kmph.matrik.edu.my/physic s

6.6 Torque on a coil (1 hour)

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Use formulae:

(
 
τ = NI A × B )
where N = number of turns
 Explain the working principles of a moving coil
galvanometer.
 Explain the DC electrical measuring instruments.

79
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

6.6 Torque on a coil

6.6.1 Formula of torque
 Consider a rectangular coil (loop) of wire with side lengths a and
b that it can turn about axis PQ. The coil is in a magnetic field of
flux density B and the plane of the coil makes an angle θ with
the direction of the magnetic field. A current I is flowing round
the coil as shown in Figure 6.31.

80
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
  
B B F
 I  I 1
F 
P A φB θ

 b
B 
B
 
F1 a I Q F
I

Figure 6.31a
81
PHYSICS CHAPTER

6
B

 
 F1
B
A
θ
φ b
 sin φ
rotation B 2
b
φ rotation

2 Q b
 sin φ
F1 φ 2
Figure 6.31b: side view
 From the Figure 6.31b, the magnitude of the force F1 is given by
F1 = IlB sin 90 and l = a
F1 = IaB
 From the Figure 6.31a, the forces F lie along the axis PQ.
82
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 From the Figure 6.31a, the forces F lie along the axis PQ.
 The resultant force on the coil is zero but the nett torque is
not zero because the forces F1 are perpendicular to the axis PQ
as shown in Figure 6.31a.
 The forces F1 cause the coil to rotate in the clockwise
direction about the axis PQ as shown in Figure 6.31b.
 The magnitude of the nett torque about the axis PQ (refer to
Figure 6.31b) is given by
b  b 
τ = − F1  sin φ  − F1  sin φ 
2  2 
b  and F = IaB
= −2 F1  sin φ  1
2 
b 
= −2( IaB )  sin φ 
2 
= − IabB sin φ and ab = A(area of coil)
83
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
τ = IAB sin φ
since φ = 90 − θ thus
(
τ = IAB sin 90 − θ )
τ = IAB cos θ
 For a coil of N turns, the magnitude of the torque is given by

τ = NIAB sin φ (6.14)

OR

τ = NIAB cos θ (6.15)

where τ : torque on the coil

B : magnetic flux density
I : current flows in the coil  
φ : angle between vector area A and B 
θ : angle between the plane of the coil and B
N : number of turns (coils) 84
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 From the eq. (6.14), thus the formula of torque in the vector
form is given by

(
 
τ = NI A × B ) (6.16)

 The torque is zero when θ = 90° or φ = 0° and is maximum

when θ = 0°or φ = 90° as shown in Figures 6.32a and 6.32b.
 A 
B B
θ = 90 φ = 90



A
φ = 0
θ = 0
Figure 6.32a Figure 6.32b

τ = NIAB sin 0  plane of the coil τ = NIAB sin 90

OR OR
τ = NIAB cos 90 τ = NIAB cos 0
τ =0 τ max = NIAB 85
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 In a radial field,
field the plane of the coil is always parallel to the
magnetic field for any orientation of the coil about the vertical
axis as shown in Figure 6.33.

θ = 0
N S OR
φ = 90 

radial field fixed soft coil

iron cylinder
Figure 6.33: Plan view of moving coil meter
Hence the torque on the coil in a radial field is always
constant and maximum given by
τ = NIAB sin 90 OR
τ = NIAB cos 0 

τ = NIAB maximum
Radial field is used in moving coil galvanometer. 86
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 13 :
A 50 turns rectangular coil with sides 10 cm × 20 cm is placed
vertically in a uniform horizontal magnetic field of magnitude 2.5 T.
If the current flows in the coil is 7.3 A, determine the torque acting
on the coil when the plane of the coil is
a. perpendicular to the field,
b. parallel to the field,
c. at 75° to the field.
Solution : N = 50 turns; B = 2.5 T; I = 7.3 A
The area of the coil is given by
A = (10 × 10 −2 )( 20 × 10 −2 ) = 2.0 × 10 −2 m 2
a.

B  From the figure, θ = 90° and φ = 0° , thus
θ = 90
 the torque on the coil is
A τ = NIAB cos θ OR τ = NIAB sin φ
= NIAB cos 90 
= NIAB sin 0
τ =0 87
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : N = 50 turns; B = 2.5 T; I = 7.3 A

b. A  From the figure, θ = 0° and φ = 90° , thus
B the torque on the coil is
φ = 90 τ = NIAB cos θ
(
= ( 50)( 7.3) 2.0 ×10 −2
)( 2.5) cos 0 

τ = 18.3 N m

c. B From the figure, θ = 75° and φ =
θ = 75  15°,thus the torque on the coil is
φ = 15 τ = NIAB cos θ
 = ( 50)( 7.3) ( 2.0 ×10 −2 )( 2.5) cos 75
A
τ = 4.72 N m

88
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.6.2 Moving-coil galvanometer
 A galvanometer consists of a coil of wire suspended in the
magnetic field of a permanent magnet. The coil is rectangular
shape and consists of many turns of fine wire as shown in
Figure 6.34.

Figure 6.34
89
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 When the current I flows through the coil,
coil the magnetic field
exerts a torque on the coil as given by
τ = NIAB
 This torque is opposed by a spring which exerts a torque, τ s
given by
τ s = kθ (6.17)

where k : torsional constant

θ : rotation angle of the coil in radian
 The coil and pointer will rotate only to the point where the
spring torque balances the torque due to magnetic field,
field
thus τ = τs
NIAB = kθ
kθ
I= (6.18)
NAB
90
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 14 :
A rectangular coil of 10 cm × 4.0 cm in a galvanometer has 50
turns and a magnetic flux density of 5.0 × 10−2 T. The resistance of
the coil is 40 Ω and a potential difference of 12 V is applied across
the galvanometer, calculate the maximum torque on the coil.
−2
Solution : N = 50 turns; B = 5.0 × 10 T; R = 40 Ω;
V = 12 V
The area of the coil is given by
A = (10 × 10 −2 )( 4.0 × 10 −2 ) = 4.0 × 10 −3 m 2
The current through the galvanometer is
V = IR 12 = I ( 40)
I = 0.3 A
Therefore the maximum torque on the coil is
τ max = NIAB
= ( 50)( 0.3) ( 4.0 ×10 −3 )( 5.0 ×10 −2 )
τ max = 3.0 × 10 −3 N m 91
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.6.3 Electrical instruments
Ohmmeter
 It is used to measure the unknown resistance of the resistor.
resistor
 Figure 6.35 shows the internal connection of an Ohmmeter.

where
∞ 0
RM : meter (coil) resistance
RS : variable resistance
Ω RX : unknown resistance
ε
RM RS

P RX Q
Figure 6.35 92
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 When nothing is connected to terminals P and Q, Q so that the
circuit is open (that is, when R → ∞ ), there is no current and
no deflection.
deflection
 When terminals P and Q are short circuited (that is when
R = 0),
0 the ohmmeter deflects full-scale.
full-scale
 For any value of RX the meter deflection depends on the value of
RX.
Ammeter
 It is used to measure a current flows in the circuit.
circuit
 Ammeter is connected in series with other elements in the
circuit because the current to be measured must pass directly
through the ammeter.
ammeter
 An ammeter should have low internal resistance (RM) so that
the current in the circuit would not affected.
affected

93
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 The maximum reading from the ammeter is known as full scale
deflection (fs).
 If the full scale current passing through the ammeter then the
potential difference (p.d.) across that ammeter is given by
Vfs = I fs RM
where RM : meter(coil) resistance
I fs : full scale current
Vfs : full scale potential difference (p.d.)
 If the meter is used to measure currents that are larger than its
full scale deflection (I >Ifs ), some modification has to be done.
 A resistor has to be connected in parallel with the meter
(coil) resistance RM so that some of the current will
bypasses the meter (coil) resistance.
resistance
 This parallel resistor is called a shunt denoted as RS.
 Figure 6.36 shows the internal connection of an ammeter with
a shunt in parallel.
94
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

0 max

A
I I fs I
IS RM

RS

Figure 6.36
 Since shunt is connected in parallel with the meter (coil)
resistance then
VRM = VRS
I fs RM = I S RS and I S = I − I fs
 I fs 
I fs RM = ( I − I fs ) RS RS =   RM (6.19)
 I − I fs  95
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Voltmeter
 It is used to measure a potential difference (p.d.) across
electrical elements in the circuit.
circuit
 Voltmeter is connected in parallel with other elements in the circuit
therefore its resistance must be larger than the resistance of the
element so that a very small amount of current only can flows
through it.
it An ideal voltmeter has infinity resistance so that no
current exist in it.
 To measure a potential difference that are larger than its full scale

deflection (V > Vfs ), the voltmeter has to be modified.

 A resistor has to be connected in series with the meter
(coil) resistance RM so that only a fraction of the total p.d.
appears across the RM and the remainder appears across the
serial resistor.
 This serial resistor is called a multiplier OR bobbin denoted
as RB.

96
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 Figure 6.37 shows the internal connection of a voltmeter with a
multiplier in series.

0 max

V
I fs
RB RM

V
I I1 Electrical
element
Figure 6.37
 Since the multiplier is connected in series with the meter (coil)
resistance then the current through them are the same, Ifs .
97
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 The p.d. across the electrical element is given by
V = VRB + VRM
Hence the multiplier resistance is
V = I fs RB + I fs RM

 V − I fs RM 
RB =   (6.20)
 I fs 
Note:
 To convert a galvanometer to ammeter,
ammeter a shunt
(parallel resistor) is used.
 To convert a galvanometer to voltmeter,
voltmeter a multiplier
(serial resistor) is used.

98
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 15 :
A milliammeter with a full scale deflection of 20 mA and an internal
resistance of 40 Ω is to be used as an ammeter with a full scale
deflection of 500 mA. Calculate the resistance of the shunt
required. I = 20 × 10 −3 A; R = 40 Ω; I = 500 × 10 −3 A
fs M
Solution :
By applying the formula of shuntresistor, thus
I fs
RS =   RM
 I − I fs 
 20 × 10 −3 
=  −3
( 40)
−3 
 500 × 10 − 20 × 10 
RS = 1.67 Ω

99
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 16 :
A galvanometer has an internal resistance of 30 Ω and deflects full
scale for a 50 µ A current. Describe how to use this galvanometer
to make
a. an ammeter to read currents up to 30 A.
b. a voltmeter to give a full scale deflection of 1000 V.
−6
Solution : I fs = 50 × 10 A; RM = 30 Ω
a. We make an ammeter by putting a resistor in parallel (RS) with
the internal resistance, RM of the galvanometer as shown in
figure below.
RM
I I fs
IS G
RS
100
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Solution : I fs = 50 × 10 −6 A; RM = 30 Ω
a. Given I = 30 A
Since RS in parallel with RM therefore
VRM = VRS
I fs RM = I S RS and I S = I − I fs
I fs RM = ( I − I fs ) RS
(50 ×10 )( 30) = (30 − 50 ×10 ) R
−6 −6
S
RS = 5.0 × 10 −5 Ω in parallel.
b. We make a voltmeter by putting a resistor in series (RB) with the

internal resistance, RM of the galvanometer

R as shown in figure
RB M
below.

I fs G I fs
V 101
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
−6
Solution : I fs = 50 × 10 A; RM = 30 Ω
b. Given V = 1000 V
Since RB in series with RM therefore
V = VRB + VRM
V = I fs RB + I fs RM
( ) (
1000 = 50 × 10 −6 RB + 50 × 10 −6 ( 30) )
RB = 2.0 × 107 Ω in series.

102
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.5 :
1. A moving coil meter has a 50 turns coil measuring 1.0 cm by
2.0 cm. It is held in a radial magnetic field of flux density
0.15 T and its suspension has a torsional constant of 3.0× 10−6
N m rad−1. Determine the current is required to give a
deflection of 0.5 rad.
ANS. : 1.0× 10−3 A
2. A milliammeter of negligible resistance produces a full scale
deflection when the current is 1 mA. How would you convert
the milliammeter to a voltmeter with full scale deflection of
10 V?
ANS. : 1.0× 104 Ω in series
3. A moving-coil meter has a resistance of 5.0 Ω and full scale
deflection is produced by a current of 1.0 mA. How can this
meter be adapted for use as :
a. a voltmeter reading up to 10 V,
b. a ammeter reading up to 2?
ANS. : 9995 Ω in series; 2.5× 10−3 Ω in parallel 103
 PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Learning Outcome:
6.7 Motion of charged particle in magnetic field and
www.kmph.matrik.edu.my/physic s

electric field (1 hour)

At the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
 Explain the motion of a charged particle in both
magnetic field and electric field.
 Derive and use formulae
E
v=
B
in a velocity selector.

104
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
6.7 Motion of charged particle in magnetic

field and electric field

 Consider a positively charged particle with mass m, charge q
and velocity v enters a region of space where the electric and
magnetic fields are perpendicular to the particle’s velocity and to
each other as shown in Figure 6.38.
+ + + + + + + + ++ + + + + + ++ + 
FB
X X X X X XB
  
v X X X X vX X
+
v
+ +
X  X X X X X
X E X X X X X
− −− −− −− − −F−−
E
−− −− −− −
Figure 6.38
105
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 The charged particle will experiences the electric force FE is
downwards with magnitude qE and the magnetic force FB is
upwards with magnitude qvB as shown in Figure 6.38.
 If the particle travels in a straight line with a constant velocity
hence the electric and magnetic forces are equal in
magnitude.
magnitude Therefore
FB = FE
qvB sin 90 = qE


E
v= (6.21)
B
 Only the particles with velocity equal to E/B can pass through
without being deflected by the fields.
fields
 Eq. (6.21) also works for electron or other negatively charged
particles.
106
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 Figure 6.38 known as velocity selector.
selector
 Normally, after the charged particle passing through the velocity
selector it will enter the next region consist of a uniform
magnetic field only.
only This apparatus known as mass
spectrometer as shown in Figure 6.39.
X X X X X
v
X
r X X X X

+ + + + + + + ++ + + + + + + ++ +  X  +X X X X
X X XF X X X B X FB X X X X
B
 X 
X v X X
+
X v X X v X X X X
+ +
X X X X X X
 X X X X X
X E X
 X
X X X X X X X X
− −− −− −− − −
FE−− −− −− −− − X X X X X

X X X X X
Figure 6.39
107
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
 When the charged particle entering the region consist of
magnetic field only,
only the particle will make a semicircular
path of radius r as shown in Figure 6.39.Therefore
FB = FC
mv 2
qvB =
r
q v E
= and v=
m rB B
q E
= 2 (6.22)
m rB
 From the eq. (6.22), the mass spectrometer can be used to
determine the value of q/m for any charged particle.

108
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Example 17 :
An electron with kinetic energy of 8.0× 10−16 J passes perpendicular
through a uniform magnetic field of 0.40× 10−3 T. It is found to follow
a circular path. Calculate
a. the radius of the circular path.
b. the time required for the electron to complete one revolution.
(Given e/m = 1.76× 1011 C kg-1, me = 9.11× 10−31 kg)
−16 −3
Solution : K = 8 . 0 × 10 J; B = 0 . 40 × 10 T
a. The speed of the electron is given by
1 2
K = mv
2
1
(
8.0 × 10 = 9.11 × 10 −31 v 2
−16
2
)
v = 4.19 × 107 m s −1
109
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
−16 −3
Solution : K = 8.0 × 10 J; B = 0.40 × 10 T
a. Since the path made by the electron is circular, thus
FB = FC
2
mv
evB sin 90 =
r
e v
 B =
m r
(1.76 ×10 )(
11 −3
0.40 × 10 =) 4.19 × 10 7
r
r = 0.595 m
b. The time required for the electron to complete one revolution is
given by 2πr
v=
T
7 2π ( 0.595)
4.19 × 10 =
T
T = 8.92 × 10 −8 s
110
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6
Exercise 6.6 :
1. An electron moving at a steady speed of 0.50× 106 m s−1
passes between two flat, parallel metal plates 2.0 cm apart
with a potential difference of 100 V between them. The
electron is kept travelling in a straight line perpendicular to the
electric field between the plates by applying a magnetic field
perpendicular to the electron’s path and to the electric field.
Calculate :
a. the intensity of the electric field.
b. the magnetic flux density needed.
ANS. : 0.50× 104 V m−1; 0.010 T
2. A proton moving in a circular path perpendicular to a constant
magnetic field takes 1.00 µ s to complete one revolution.
Determine the magnitude of the magnetic field.
(Physics for scientist and engineers, 6th edition, Serway&Jewet,
Q32, p.921)
(mp=1.67× 10−27 kg and charge of the proton, q=1.60× 10−19 C)
ANS. : 6.56× 10−2 T 111
PHYSICS CHAPTER 6

Next Chapter…
CHAPTER 7 :
Electromagnetic induction

112