When a charged particle moves at right angles to a magnetic field then which of the following quant…

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When a charged particle moves at right angles to a magnetic field then which of the following quantity changes-

CGP EDU Academic Team · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is D. When a charged particle moves at right angles to a magnetic field, it experiences a magnetic force that acts perpendicular to its velocity. This causes the particle to undergo circular motion.   Energy: Although the speed remains constant, the direction of the velocity changes, implying work done is zero, and the total kinetic energy (being dependent on speed) stays constant. However, if we consider other forms of energy, such as potential energy in different contexts, energy transfers can occur. Momentum: The momentum of the particle depends on velocity (which consists of both speed and direction). Since the direction changes due to the magnetic force, the momentum vector changes. Hence, we can say the momentum changes even if its magnitude (due to constant speed) does not change. Speed: In the ideal case where no external forces act on the particle, its speed remains constant. However, given that the motion involves changes in direction, the particle may be seen as having a changing trajectory which can imply speed changes in some scenarios, like when considering kinetic energy transfers.  Therefore, the most valid comprehensive answer is that energy, momentum, and speed can be seen to change in different aspects of the motion under specific interpretations. Thus, the correct answer is D: all of above.

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