Frequently Asked Questions
When is the magnetic force on a charge zero?
The magnetic force is zero when the charge is at rest, when the magnetic field is zero, or when the velocity is exactly parallel to the field so the angle is zero degrees and its sine is zero.
Does the magnetic force change a particle speed?
No. Because the magnetic force always acts at a right angle to the motion, it changes direction but does no work, so the particle speed stays constant while its path curves.
What units should I use?
Use coulombs for charge, meters per second for velocity, and tesla for the magnetic field. The result then comes out in newtons.
Does this include the electric part of the Lorentz force?
No. The full Lorentz force is F = qE + qv×B, the sum of an electric term qE (present whenever there is an electric field) and a magnetic term qv×B. This calculator finds only the magnitude of the magnetic part, F = qvB·sinθ. If a static electric field is also present, compute the electric force qE separately and add the two force vectors.
Where does the magnetic Lorentz force show up in real devices?
Because the force curves a charged particle's path without changing its speed, it drives many instruments. Cyclotrons and other particle accelerators use magnets to bend particles into circular orbits; mass spectrometers deflect ions by amounts set by their mass-to-charge ratio to identify them; older cathode-ray-tube (CRT) TVs and monitors steered electron beams with magnetic coils; and electric motors, magnetrons, and Hall-effect sensors all rely on the same qv×B force.
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Important Disclaimer: Estimates for informational purposes only.
This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are based on assumptions and may not reflect actual outcomes. Consult qualified professionals in relevant fields before making important decisions based on these results.