๐Ÿ’กap physics c: e&m review

Cyclotron Motion

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025

Definition

Cyclotron motion refers to the circular path followed by charged particles when they are subjected to both a constant magnetic field and an electric field that oscillates at a specific frequency. This motion allows for particle acceleration in devices such as cyclotrons and particle accelerators.