Question

An electron with speed v0 << c moves in a circle of radius r0 in a uniform magnetic field. This electron is able to traverse a circular path as the magnetic force acting on the electron is perpendicular to both v0 and B, as shown in the figure. This force continuously deflects the particle sideways without changing its speed and the particle will move along a circle perpendicular to the field. The time required for one revolution of the electron is T0.

If the given electron has a velocity not perpendicular to B, then the trajectory of the electron is ______.

Options

• straight line

• circular

• helical

• zig-zag

Answer 1

If the given electron has a velocity not perpendicular to B, then the trajectory of the electron is helical.