Structured-type Question Solution

Chapter 21 Electrons
1.

(Q)21P1

Figure 1 shows the apparatus using crossed magnetic and electric fields to measure the charge-to-mass ratio of
electron. The cathode-ray tube has a cathode C and an anode A with a horizontal collimating slit, from which the
electrons emerge in a narrow beam.

Figure 1

(a)

Describe how electrons are emitted from the cathode.

(2 marks)

(b) The Helmholtz coils, X1 and X2, are to provide a uniform magnetic field over some distance around their
common axis midway between the two. The e.h.t. is set at voltage V and a direct current flows round the
Helmholtz coils.
(i)

State the direction of the magnetic field if the current flows round each coil in a clockwise direction.
Suggest a piece of apparatus for measuring the flux density of the magnetic field due to the Helmholtz
coils.
(2 marks)

(ii) Sketch and describe the trail of the electron beam between the deflecting plates Y1 and Y2 if each of the
following changes is made independently:
(I)

Both Y1 and Y2 are connected to the positive terminal of the e.h.t.

(II) The current in the Helmholtz coils is switched off.

(c)

(2 marks)
(2 marks)

The Helmholtz coils, each of diameter 30 cm, are connected in series to a d.c. power supply. The coils are
parallel and 15 cm apart. Each coil has 130 turns. The flux density B of the magnetic field midway between
the coils near the axis is given by
where I is the current through the Helmholtz coils
N is the number of turns on each coil a is the radius of the coils
o =4x10-7 H m
The e.h.t. is now set at 3 kV and a direct current of 1.6 A flows round the Helmholtz coils. The electron beam,
which is perpendicular to both the magnetic field and the electric field, emerges from between the deflecting
plates Y1 and Y2 without deflection.
(i)

Calculate the flux density B of the magnetic field between the coils near the axis.

(2 marks)

(ii) If the separation between Y1 and Y2 is d, derive an expression for the charge-to-mass ratio of electron in
terms of B, V and d. Calculate the measured charge-to-mass ratio if d is 0.07 m.
(4 marks)
(iii) The accepted value of the charge-to-mass ratio of electron is 1.76 1011 C kg-1. Suggest a cause that
may lead to the discrepancy between the accepted value and the experimental value obtained in (c)(ii).
(1 mark)