A charged particle in constant gravitational field

In summary, a charged particle in a constant gravitational field is subject to a steady gravitational force and its electric charge causes it to deviate from a purely gravitational trajectory, resulting in a curved path. The acceleration of the particle is determined by the strength of the gravitational field, the mass and charge of the particle, and the orientation of the forces. A charged particle in a constant gravitational field cannot reach a state of equilibrium due to continuous acceleration. Studying these particles has various real-world applications such as understanding atmospheric behavior, predicting trajectories, and developing technologies.
  • #1
clerk
20
0
In classical electrodynamics a paradox arises when we compare the power radiated by a charge falling under gravity using larmor formula (proportional to square of the acceleration, hence g^2) but the radiation reaction , given by abraham lorentz formula gives zero.(since it depends on the time derivative of the acceleration) ie. the external power required to counteract the radiation reaction is zero. I haven't come across any good explanation. Can someone please help me out? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
The abraham lorentz formula does not apply to constant acceleration.
 
  • #3
i see ..thanks.
 

1. What is a charged particle in a constant gravitational field?

A charged particle in a constant gravitational field refers to a particle with an electric charge that is subject to a steady gravitational force. This means that the particle will experience a constant acceleration due to both gravity and its electric charge.

2. How does the electric charge affect the motion of a charged particle in a constant gravitational field?

The electric charge of a particle will interact with the gravitational force, causing the particle to deviate from its purely gravitational trajectory. This results in a curved path for the charged particle as it moves through the gravitational field.

3. What factors determine the acceleration of a charged particle in a constant gravitational field?

The acceleration of a charged particle in a constant gravitational field is determined by the strength of the gravitational field, the mass of the particle, and the magnitude of the electric charge. The direction of the acceleration will depend on the relative orientation of the gravitational and electric forces.

4. Can a charged particle in a constant gravitational field reach a state of equilibrium?

No, a charged particle in a constant gravitational field will not reach a state of equilibrium. The presence of both gravitational and electric forces will result in a continuous acceleration of the particle, preventing it from reaching a state of rest.

5. What are some real-world applications of studying charged particles in a constant gravitational field?

Studying charged particles in a constant gravitational field has many practical applications, including understanding the behavior of particles in the Earth's atmosphere, predicting the trajectories of particles in space, and developing technologies such as particle accelerators and plasma thrusters.

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