Two singly ionized isotopes, X and Y, of the same element move with the same speed perpendicular to a uniform magnetic field. Isotope X follows a path of radius 3.35 cm while isotope Y moves along a path 3.43 cm in radius. What is the ratio of the two isotope masses, m_Y/m_X? A) 0.977 B) 0.954 C) 1.05 D) 1.02

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The radius of the path in a magnetic field is proportional to the mass of the ion. Therefore, the ratio of the radii is equal to the ratio of the masses. Thus, m_Y/m_X = 3.43 cm / 3.35 cm = 1.02.

Two Singly Ionized Isotopes, X and Y, of the Same