Question about Electromagnetic Energy

In summary, the paper discussed a possible intrinsic spin to the rotating energy flux of an electron's probability wave function, and noted that a freedom in the definition of energy flux provided a suitable constraint to choose the expression.
  • #1
lugita15
1,554
15
In his Lectures on Physics, Feynman derives the electromagnetic energy density u and the electromagnetic energy flux [tex]\vec{S}[/tex]. However, he states that there is an ambiguity in the field energy: the common expressions given for u and [tex]\vec{S}[/tex] are only the simplest known expressions. There are really an infinite number of possible expressions for u and [tex]\vec{S}[/tex] which are consistent with Maxwell's Equations, and as of the publication of the Feynman lectures, no one could figure out which one is correct.
Feynman even says, "People have guessed that the simplest one is probably the correct one, but we must say that we do not know for certain what is the actual location in space of the electromagnetic field energy." He later says, "It is interesting that there seems to be no unique way to resolve the indefiniteness in the location of the field energy."

My question is, since the publication of the Feynman Lectures, has there been any progress in proving that the commonly given expressions for u and [tex]\vec{S}[/tex] are ultimately correct?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank You in Advance.
 
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  • #2
I was recently reading a paper that attributes intrinsic spin to the rotating energy flux of an electron's probability wave function. It also noted a freedom in the definition of energy flux (and pointed out that only one choice cleanly gave rise to the elegant interpretation they were interested in), but said that their choice was the only covariant one (i.e., that basic consistency with relativity theory provides a suitable constraint to choose the expression).
 
  • #3
arXiv:0707.3421
 
  • #4
At any rate, in principle it seems to me that it should be possible to determine the location of energy by the fact that energy gravitates. I just don't imagine that such an experiment is practical.
 

1. What is electromagnetic energy?

Electromagnetic energy refers to the energy that is carried by electromagnetic waves, which are a type of energy that travels through space at the speed of light. These waves consist of both electric and magnetic fields, and they have a wide range of frequencies and wavelengths, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.

2. How is electromagnetic energy produced?

Electromagnetic energy is produced when an electric charge is accelerated or decelerated. This can happen in a variety of ways, such as when an electric current flows through a wire or when an atom emits or absorbs light. Additionally, electromagnetic energy can also be produced by nuclear reactions, such as those that occur in the Sun.

3. What are the applications of electromagnetic energy?

Electromagnetic energy has numerous applications in our daily lives. Some common examples include radio and television broadcasting, cell phones, microwaves, X-ray machines, and solar panels. It is also used in medical imaging, communication technology, and various industrial processes.

4. How does electromagnetic energy interact with matter?

Electromagnetic energy can interact with matter in different ways, depending on its frequency and the properties of the material it encounters. For example, low-frequency waves, such as radio waves, can easily pass through most materials, while high-frequency waves, such as X-rays, can be absorbed or scattered by denser materials like bones or metal. Some materials, such as glass, are transparent to certain frequencies of electromagnetic waves but can reflect or absorb others.

5. Can electromagnetic energy be harmful?

While electromagnetic energy has many beneficial applications, it can also be harmful at high levels of exposure. For example, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Similarly, X-rays and gamma rays can be harmful to living organisms if exposed to high doses. It is important to use protective measures, such as sunscreen or lead shielding, when working with or exposed to high levels of electromagnetic energy.

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