Dunningtons method of determining specific charge (e/m) of electron.

The experimental set up is as shown in the figure. F is a metallic filament which is capable of emitting electrons by thermionic emission. C is a metallic cylinder which receives the electrons. M1 and M2 are two metallic plates with fine holes. S1, S2, S3 and S4 are four slits which defines the path of the electrons. F and C are connected to one end of a crystal oscillator O and M1 and M2 are connected to the other end of the oscillator. A magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the path of the electrons, i.e. perpendicular to the diagram.

When the electrons are emitted by the filament, M1 is given a + potential so that the electrons are accelerated and describes a circular path under the transverse magnetic field B. The electrons completing the circular path are received by the receiver C and hence the galvanometer shows a deflection. By the time electrons reaches M2, if C is given a negative potential electrons are decelerated and cannot reach the receiver C. Then galvanometer deflection reduces to zero. This can be achieved either by adjusting the frequency of the oscillator or the strength of the magnetic field.

Let B be the magnetic field, e be the charge, m be the mass and v be the velocity of the electron. Then centripetal force required for the motion of the electrons is provided by the magnetic force.

Let f be the frequency of the crystal oscillator O. Suppose the electrons reach from F to C with in a time equal to time period T of the oscillator.

Equating (2) and (3)

Therefore specific charge of the electron