Is E in a Vacuum Considered Free Space?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the characterization of electric fields (E) in a vacuum versus free space, particularly in the context of electromagnetic theory. Participants are exploring the implications of these definitions while attempting to derive related quantities such as magnetic field (B), charge density (ρ), and current density (J).

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to clarify the definitions of vacuum and free space, questioning the implications of these terms on the values of charge density and current density. There are discussions on the relevant equations governing electromagnetic fields and their relationships.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the differences between vacuum and free space. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of specific equations, but there is no consensus on the implications of these definitions for the problem at hand.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of electromagnetic theory, referencing specific equations related to electric and magnetic fields. There is an emphasis on the definitions of charge density and current density in different contexts.

robert25pl
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Given E in a region of space ( [tex]\epsilon_{o} , \mu_{o}[/tex])
I should think of it as a free space or vacuum?
 
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This is vacuum.
 
I have to find [tex]B[/tex], [tex]\rho[/tex] and [tex]J[/tex]

[tex]\nabla \times \vec E= -\frac{\partial \vec B}{\partial t}[/tex]

[tex]\nabla \cdot D=\rho[/tex]

In free space J = 0 so for J in vacuum I should use

[tex]\nabla \times H =J+ \frac{\partial D}{\partial t}[/tex]

or something else?
 
robert25pl said:
I have to find [tex]B[/tex], [tex]\rho[/tex] and [tex]J[/tex]

[tex]\nabla \times \vec E= -\frac{\partial \vec B}{\partial t}[/tex]

[tex]\nabla \cdot D=\rho[/tex]

In free space J = 0 so for J in vacuum I should use

[tex]\nabla \times H =J+ \frac{\partial D}{\partial t}[/tex]

or something else?

You probably want to use

[tex]D = \epsilon_{o} E[/tex]

[tex]B = \mu_{o} H,[/tex]

to eliminate D and H. Don't know if you will need it, but you can round out your set of equations with

[tex]\nabla \cdot B=0[/tex]
 
I think I got B, D, H and [tex]\rho[/tex] and using

[tex]\nabla \times H =J+ \frac{\partial D}{\partial t}[/tex]

I get J

What is the difference between free space (J = 0) and vacuum?
 
Vacuum means [itex]\mu_{0},\epsilon_{0}[/itex].If you're speaking about "free space",then u should assume no charge density [itex]\rho=0[/itex] and no charge transport [itex]\vec{J}=0[/itex].

So we can have sources in vacuum.But not in free space.

Free space is typically a vacuum in which electromagetic waves (radiation far away from the sources) propagate.

Daniel.
 
Thanks, So in my problem I will get J not equal 0
 
Please post the text of your problem in its exact form.

Daniel.
 
In the region of space [tex]\epsilon_{o} , \mu_{o}[/tex]
[tex]E = (6z\vec{i}+10y\vec{j})cos500t \vec{j}[/tex]

Find [tex]B, \rho, J[/tex]
 
  • #10
[tex]\nabla\cdot\vec{E}=\frac{\rho}{\epsilon_{0}}[/tex] (1)

[tex]\nabla\times\vec{E}=-\frac{\partial\vec{B}}{\partial t}[/tex] (2)

[tex]\nabla\times\vec{B}=\mu_{0}\vec{J}+\mu_{0}\epsilon_{0}\frac{\partial\vec{E}}{\partial t}[/tex] (3)

Daniel.
 

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