Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Lorentz force describes the force experienced by a charged particle moving through a magnetic field. It acts perpendicular to both the velocity vector of the particle and the direction of the magnetic field.
Related terms
Magnetic Field: This is the region around a magnet or current-carrying wire where magnetic forces can be detected.
Electric Field: Similar to the magnetic field, this is the region around an electric charge where electric forces can be detected.
Right Hand Rule: A technique used to determine the direction of the Lorentz force on a moving charged particle. It involves using your right hand and aligning your thumb with the velocity vector and fingers with the magnetic field direction.