1. What is the Lorentz Force Formula?

The Lorentz force formula calculates the force exerted on a charged particle moving through a magnetic field. It's fundamental in electromagnetism and has applications in particle physics, electrical engineering, and many technological devices.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Lorentz force formula:

Where:

• \( F \) — Magnetic force (N)
• \( q \) — Electric charge (C)
• \( v \) — Velocity of the charge (m/s)
• \( B \) — Magnetic field strength (T)
• \( \theta \) — Angle between velocity and magnetic field (degrees)

Explanation: The force is maximum when the charge moves perpendicular to the field (θ = 90°) and zero when moving parallel (θ = 0°).

3. Importance of Lorentz Force Calculation

Details: Understanding this force is crucial for designing electric motors, particle accelerators, mass spectrometers, and understanding phenomena like the aurora borealis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter charge in coulombs, velocity in m/s, magnetic field in teslas, and angle in degrees. All values must be valid (charge > 0, velocity ≥ 0, field ≥ 0, angle between 0-180°).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the direction of the Lorentz force?
A: The force direction is perpendicular to both velocity and magnetic field, given by the right-hand rule.

Q2: What if the particle isn't moving?
A: If v = 0, the force is zero. A static charge in a magnetic field experiences no force.

Q3: How does angle affect the force?
A: Force is proportional to sinθ, so it's maximum at 90° and decreases to zero at 0° or 180°.

Q4: What are typical charge values?
A: For electrons: -1.6×10⁻¹⁹ C; protons: +1.6×10⁻¹⁹ C. Macroscopic objects have much larger charges.

Q5: What about the electric field component?
A: The full Lorentz force includes electric field: \( F = q(E + v × B) \). This calculator focuses on the magnetic component.