Physics · Electrostatics

As v and E are not parallel so v and e must be perpendicular. When a charged particle enters an electric field with velocity v, it follows a parabolic path.

When a charged particle enters a uniform electric field at an angle to the field lines, it experiences a force perpendicular to its velocity. This force causes the particle's path to bend, resulting in a parabolic trajectory.

A circular path would occur if the charge were moving perpendicular to the electric field and experienced a force directed toward the center of the circular path. However, in this case, the direction of the velocity and electric field are not necessarily perpendicular, so the path is not circular.

If the path were parallel to the velocity (v), it would mean that the charge is not experiencing any force due to the electric field. However, since the charge enters the electric field, it will experience a force and change its path.

If the path is parallel to E, it would mean that the charged particle is moving along the electric field lines without any deviation. This would only happen if the initial velocity of the charged particle is parallel to the electric field, in which case the electric force would not affect the direction of motion.