a standard coordinate system (+x to the right, +y upwards and +z out of the page) a particle with a positive charge is travelling in the +x direction when it encounters a magnetic field in the −y direction. In which direction will the magnetic force act on the particle?
To determine the direction of the magnetic force on a charged particle moving in a magnetic field, you can use the right-hand rule. Here's how to apply it to solve this problem:
1. Position your right hand such that your thumb points in the direction of the positive charge's velocity (+x direction).
2. Curl your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field (−y direction).
3. Your palm will face the direction of the magnetic force acting on the charged particle.
In this case, when you follow the steps above, your palm will be facing towards the -z direction (into the page). Therefore, the magnetic force on the particle will act in the -z direction.
The direction of the magnetic force acting on a charged particle in a magnetic field is given by the right-hand rule. According to the right-hand rule, if you point your thumb in the direction of the moving charged particle (in this case, in the +x direction), and curl your fingers in the direction of the magnetic field (in this case, in the -y direction), the direction your palm faces represents the direction of the magnetic force.
Using the right-hand rule, we find that the magnetic force will act in the +z direction, which is out of the page.
So, the magnetic force will act on the particle in the +z direction (out of the page).