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Physics 12 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

High above the surface of the Earth, charged particles (such as electrons and protons) can become trapped in the Earth's magnetic field in regions known as Van Allen belts. A typical electron in a Van Allen belt has an energy of 55keV and travels in a roughly circular orbit with an average radius of 220m . What is the magnitude of the Earth's magnetic field where such an electron orbits? I have tried a few different ways, but still having trouble understanding how to solve the problem.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Change 55 keV into J of kinetic energy = (1/2)m v^2 knowing m ,you can get v^2. use F= m v^2/r to get the force needed to create this circular motion us F = q v B to get the force due to the magnetic field B and set F = F to find B.

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