We Can Figure This Out.org
Virtual Lab: Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
University of Virginia
             
 
© 2003-Present, John C. Bean
 
Here we analyze the force at the electron's new position.

Because the velocity is now moving slightly back into the screen, we get a force that begins to push the electron in towards the axis of the lens. This inward force causes the spray of electrons to bend inward in the same way that a glass lens focuses light.

However, where a ray of light bends in one plane, instead electrons in a magnetic lens spiral one half turn around the magnetic field lines until they are directed towards the lens's focal point.

 
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