Order of magnitude of the magnetic force

In summary, the order of magnitude of the magnetic force is typically measured in Newtons (N) or dynes (dyn) and can range from 10^-16 N to 10^44 N. It is calculated using the formula F = qvB and is always positive. Compared to other fundamental forces, it is much weaker. The force can change depending on the strength of the magnetic field and the velocity of the charged particle.
  • #1
Nimmy
41
0
A proton of mass 1.7 x 10^-27 kg and spped 3 x 10^7 meters per second is moving in a circle of a radius of 200 meters.

What formula do I need to use to find out the best estimate of the order of magnitude of the magnetic force needed to maintain this motion?
 
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  • #2
The lorentz force.

F=q(E+v x B)
 
  • #3
Any time something is traveling in a circle, it must be because of a centripedal force. In this case, the centripedal force is the lorentz force:

qvB = (mv^2)/r
 

Related to Order of magnitude of the magnetic force

1. What is the order of magnitude of the magnetic force?

The order of magnitude of the magnetic force is typically measured in Newtons (N) or dynes (dyn). It can range from as small as 10^-16 N for the force between two electrons, to as large as 10^44 N for the force between two extremely massive objects, such as neutron stars.

2. How is the order of magnitude of the magnetic force calculated?

The order of magnitude of the magnetic force is calculated using the formula F = qvB, where q is the charge of the particle, v is its velocity, and B is the strength of the magnetic field. This formula is based on the Lorentz force law.

3. Can the order of magnitude of the magnetic force be negative?

No, the order of magnitude of the magnetic force cannot be negative. The direction of the magnetic force is always perpendicular to both the velocity of the charged particle and the direction of the magnetic field, so it is always positive.

4. How does the order of magnitude of the magnetic force compare to other fundamental forces?

The magnetic force is one of the four fundamental forces in nature, along with the gravitational force, the strong nuclear force, and the weak nuclear force. The magnetic force is much weaker than the other three forces, with a strength that is typically 10^-36 times smaller than the strong nuclear force and 10^-39 times smaller than the gravitational force.

5. Can the order of magnitude of the magnetic force change?

Yes, the order of magnitude of the magnetic force can change depending on the strength of the magnetic field and the velocity of the charged particle. As these variables change, the force may increase or decrease accordingly.

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