Electromagnetism - Quadrupole , Octupole

In summary, to calculate the electric field of a quadrupole or octupole in spherical coordinates, one can use the multipole expansion for the potential in terms of Legendre polynomials. If the charge distribution is axially symmetric, this method can be used. However, if it is not, the spherical harmonic expansion is necessary. A helpful resource for this topic is Boas' "Mathematical Methods" Chapter 12, section 5, example 1. An example solution for a quadrupole with four charges arranged on the y and x axes is also provided.
  • #1
syracuse1234
1
0
1.Calculate the electric field of a quadrupole in spherical coordinates.

2.Calculate the electric field of a octupole in spherical coordinates.
 
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  • #2
There seems to be missing some information here. How exactly are those multi-poles arranged? equal charges? equal distances? Regular polygons? "a quadupole" or "an octopole" are very wide terms indeed
 
  • #3
syracuse1234 said:
1.Calculate the electric field of a quadrupole in spherical coordinates.

2.Calculate the electric field of a octupole in spherical coordinates.

Use the multipole expansion for the potential in terms of Legendre polynomials for the case of an axially symmetric chargel distribution. If itr is not axially slymmetric, you need the spherical harmonic expansion.
 
  • #4
Also see Boas (Math Methods) Ch. 12 sect.5 ex. 1 for future reference. Solution if You have 2 +ve charges Q at +/- "a" on y-axis and 2 -ve charges Q at +/- "a" on x-axis is [tex]V=\frac{-3Qa^{2}cos(2\theta)}{4\pi\epsilon_{0}r^{3}}[/tex]
 

1. What is a quadrupole in electromagnetism?

A quadrupole in electromagnetism refers to an arrangement of four magnetic poles that produce a magnetic field. This field is characterized by two pairs of opposite poles, with each pair being closer together than the two pairs as a whole.

2. How does a quadrupole differ from a dipole?

A dipole has two magnetic poles, whereas a quadrupole has four. Additionally, a dipole produces a magnetic field that is symmetrical along its axis, while a quadrupole produces a field that is not symmetrical along its axis.

3. What is the purpose of an octupole in electromagnetism?

An octupole in electromagnetism is used to create a more complex magnetic field compared to a quadrupole or dipole. It consists of eight magnetic poles arranged in a specific pattern to produce a more uniform and precise magnetic field.

4. How are quadrupoles and octupoles used in particle accelerators?

Quadrupoles and octupoles are used in particle accelerators to focus and steer charged particles. The magnetic fields produced by these electromagnets can manipulate the trajectory of particles, allowing them to be accelerated and controlled.

5. Are there any real-world applications of quadrupoles and octupoles besides particle accelerators?

Yes, quadrupoles and octupoles have a variety of real-world applications. They are used in mass spectrometers, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, and other scientific instruments that require precise control of magnetic fields. They are also used in industrial settings for materials testing and quality control processes.

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