Model qualitatively and quantitatively the trajectories of charged particles in electric fields

Electromagnetism > Charged Particles, Conductors and Electric and Magnetic Fields >

Trajectory of particle in free fall in Gravitational field 

If an object is dropped (initial velocity = 0) in a Gravitational field g, then it falls with an acceleration acceleration

Trajectory of particle in free fall in Electrical field

If an object is dropped (initial velocity = 0) in a Electric field E, then it falls with an acceleration acceleration

Trajectory of projectile in Gravitational field

Trajectories of particles in projectile motion, in a uniform gravitational field are parabolic. (without air resistance)

Trajectory of projectile in Electrical field

Let’s see how it is in uniform electric field E :

  • horizontal acceleration = 0
  • vertical acceleration: vertical acceleration(constant acceleration)
  • These two combine to produce a parabolic trajectory for a projectile
    • horizontal displacement in time: horizontal displacement in time
      • horizontal displacement in time
    • vertical displacement in time: vertical displacement in time
    • therefore: parabolic trajectory for a projectile, which is the equation of a parabola
 
 

Extract from Physics Stage 6 Syllabus © 2017 NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)