Question 169 of 276

A uniform electric field $\vec{E}$ exists between the plates of a charged condenser. A charged particle enters the space between the plates and perpendicular to $\vec{E}$. The path of the particle between the plates is a:

Astraight lineBhyperbolaCparabolaDcircle

Show answer and solution▾

Answer: (C) parabola

When charged particle enters perpendicularly in an electric field, it describes a parabolic path
$$\mathrm{y}=\frac{1}{2}\left(\frac{\mathrm{QE}}{\mathrm{m}}\right)\left(\frac{\mathrm{x}}{4}\right)^2$$
This is the equation of parabola.