F = qv×B: v is with respect to what?

• Autores: Kent W. Scheller, Thomas J. Pickett
• Localización: The Physics Teacher, ISSN 0031-921X, Vol. 51, Nº. 3, 2013, pág. 169
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • In introductory physics classes, we typically introduce the magnetic force, F = qv × B, on a moving charge and its vector nature using a right-hand rule, as described by numerous textbooks.1�4 When presented to students, it is often assumed that the velocity of the charge used in this calculation is relative to the magnetic field in which it travels. Previously5�6 the relativity of the magnetic force has been discussed to show that v is not with respect to the magnetic field. Here we demonstrate with a couple of Gedanken experiments the actual relativity of the magnetic force and to what the charge's velocity is relative.