Path of a charged particle in a homogeneous electromagnetic field

This simulation shows the path of a charged particle in a three dimensional homogeneous field, that may have electric and magnetic components. All values are normalized to a maximum of 1.

The 3D perspective projection of the path can be tilted and shifted into any direction by drawing with the mouse. The context menu (right mouse button) leads to the Camera, which allows selection of specific views.

At default a homogenous magnetic field of value 1 is oriented along the x axis. There is no electric field. The electron, initially positioned at the origin, starts with an initial velocity vector in the z direction of value 1/2. With these initial conditions it will follow a circular path around an axis parallel to that of the magnetic field (x axis). The vector of the magnetic field is shown as a thick, red arrow.

At the right side of the window a number of sliders are positioned, which determine the vectors of velocity (v), electric (E) and magnetic (B) field. In default vy and vz change periodically while the electron revolves in the yz-plane.

When electric field components are chosen by means of the corresponding sliders, the electric field vector is shown as a green arrow.

The simulation can be stopped and started with a start/stop button. Reset leads back to the default situation and stops the movement (calculation). ResetObject repositions the electron to the origin, while leaving all parameters, and the old orbit visible.  ResetObject is initiated automatically when the object leaves the coordinate range. Clear deletes all orbits.

Field components can be varied while the electron is orbiting. During orbiting only zero components of the velocity vector should be changed, if one wants to arrive at easily interpretable results (e.g. vx at default)..

Slider speed of calculation defines the time interval of calculation and thus influences the demonstrated speed of movement.