Centripetal force from a magnetic field
What Centripetal force from a magnetic field means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Centripetal force from a magnetic field
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Centripetal force from a magnetic field in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The magnetic force is always perpendicular to velocity and has constant magnitude Bqv, so it provides the centripetal force.
Topics that use Centripetal force from a magnetic field
- Moving charges in a magnetic field (A-level only) (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Cyclotron resonance and constant period
- Energy gain in an alternating electric field
- Left-hand rule and conventional current
- Magnetic force on a moving charge
- Magnetic force on moving charges
- Vector directions and the left-hand rule
- Vector nature of force, velocity and field
- Applications in particle physics
Using Centripetal force from a magnetic field in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge