Physics · Force on a moving charge in uniform magnetic and electric fields

A strong magnetic field is applied on a stationary electron. Then

A strong magnetic field is applied on a stationary electron. Then

  • A. the electron moves in the direction of the field
  • B. the electron moves in an opposite
  • C. the electron remains stationary
  • D. the electron starts spinning

Step-by-step solution

The magnetic force on a charged particle is F = q(v × B). Since the electron is initially stationary (v = 0), the magnetic force is zero, so the electron does not acquire translational motion. While the electron has intrinsic spin, the magnetic field exerts a torque that can align or precess the spin, but it does not cause the electron to 'start spinning' or move translationally. Therefore, the electron remains stationary.
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