The Discovery of the Electron

About the lecture

In this mini-lecture, we discuss the discovery of the electron. In particular, we consider: (i) a cathode ray tube demonstration; (ii) a demonstration of crossed fields where perpendicular magnetic and electric fields are set up, and an electron beam in the system can be bent upon manipulation of the magnetic field; (iii) the left hand rule, involving force, magnetic field, and current; (iv) J.J. Thomson’s cathode ray tube experiment used to determine the specific charge of an electron; and (v) Millikan’s oil drop experiment that was used to determine the charge of an electron.

About the lecturer

Janet Lovett is a Lecturer in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of St Andrews. Her primary research interest is in measuring nanometre distances for structural biology using Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Dr Lovett teaches a first-year ‘Properties of Matter’ course at the University in addition to other courses such as magnetic resonance.