Deflection of electrons in uniform electric fields

Steps:

• Electrons experience force F = qE, opposite to E-field direction due to negative charge.
• In diagram 1, E in plane of paper and perpendicular to initial velocity, causing in-plane acceleration and parabolic trajectory.
• In diagram 2, E perpendicular to paper, causing acceleration out of plane; projection onto paper remains straight line.
• Option B matches: curved path for diagram 1, straight for diagram 2.

Why B is correct:

• Parabolic path follows projectile motion under constant acceleration perpendicular to velocity, per Newton's second law.

Why the others are wrong:

• A shows straight paths both, ignoring in-plane deflection in diagram 1.
• C shows curves both, but diagram 2 projection is unaffected in plane.
• D likely shows helical or circular paths, incorrect without magnetic field.

Final answer: B