What is the significance of velocity in relativistic electromagnetism?

In summary, the equation F=q(v*B) represents the force experienced by a charged particle, where q is the charge of the particle, v is the velocity of the particle, and B is the magnetic flux density. This equation takes into account the frame of reference from which the B field is observed and also considers the electric field, as both are part of the electromagnetic field in relativity. Purcell's book on E&M is a helpful resource for further understanding of this concept.
  • #1
Criticalsandy
3
0
I have read:
F=q(v*B)

where q=charge of the particle
v=velocity of the charge particle
B=magnetic flux density
F= force experienced by the charged particle

Now,I could not understand what is the velocity v with respect to?

Please help me.
 
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  • #2
V is with respect to that frame of reference from which you are observing that B.
Remember B field also needs frame of reference.
It was a nice question though. And, BTW, Welcome to P.F.
 
  • #3
Remember, the magnetic field is only part of the electromagnetic field. In relativity, you cannot escape dealing with the other part (the electric field) also, when switching between different reference frames (points of view):

[tex] \vec F = q (\vec E + \vec v \times \vec B)[/tex]

When you switch from one reference frame to another, not only does v change, but so do E and B. If you start with only a B field in one frame (zero E field), in some other frame (different v) you also have an E field, in general. Likewise if you start out with only an E field in one frame, in another frame you have both an E and a B field.
 
  • #4
Purcell's book on E&M is fantastic for this sort of thing, I highly recommend it.
 

What is relativistic electromagnetism?

Relativistic electromagnetism is the study of how electric and magnetic fields interact with each other in the context of special relativity, which explains the relationship between space and time.

How does relativistic electromagnetism differ from classical electromagnetism?

Unlike classical electromagnetism, relativistic electromagnetism takes into account the effects of motion and the constant speed of light in its equations. This allows for a more accurate understanding of how electric and magnetic fields behave in high-speed situations.

What are some practical applications of relativistic electromagnetism?

Relativistic electromagnetism has many practical applications, including the development of particle accelerators, the study of cosmic rays and high-energy radiation, and the creation of new technologies such as MRI machines and particle detectors.

What is the role of the electromagnetic tensor in relativistic electromagnetism?

The electromagnetic tensor is a mathematical tool used to describe the electric and magnetic fields in a unified manner in the context of special relativity. It allows for a more elegant and concise representation of the laws of electromagnetism.

How does relativistic electromagnetism relate to Einstein's theory of relativity?

Relativistic electromagnetism is a crucial component of Einstein's theory of relativity, as it helps to explain the behavior of electromagnetic fields in the context of the theory. It also provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between electricity, magnetism, space, and time.

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