University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 27 - Magnetic Field and Magnetic Forces - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 911: Q27.2

Answer

The magnetic force depends on the particle’s motion, and is not uniquely determined at a point in space.

Work Step by Step

The magnetic force $\vec{F}=q\vec{v}\times \vec{B}$. The direction depends on both the particle’s velocity $\vec{v}$ and the magnetic field $\vec{B}$, so we cannot define the force’s direction solely by knowing the direction of the magnetic field $\vec{B}$.
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