What forces act on charged particles in a cyclotron?

In a cyclotron, charged particles, such as electrons or ions, are subjected to both electric and magnetic forces.

The magnetic force acts on moving charged particles and is critical in the cyclotron’s function. When a charged particle moves through a magnetic field, it experiences a force perpendicular to both its velocity and the direction of the magnetic field. This force causes the particle to move in a circular path, allowing it to gain energy as it is accelerated through the cyclotron.

Additionally, the electric force is involved in accelerating the particles. The cyclotron typically has an oscillating electric field between the "dees" (the two hollow electrodes shaped like the letter D) that applies an electric potential to the particles. This electric field gives the charged particles a boost of energy each time they pass through, increasing their speed and radius of their circular path.

The interplay of these electric and magnetic forces allows the cyclotron to accelerate charged particles to high velocities effectively. Therefore, both forces are essential for the operation of the cyclotron, making "electric and magnetic forces" the correct answer.