Magnetic field of an electron

In summary, the conversation discusses different interpretations of the magnetic field of an electron. One perspective is that it is caused by a current and is strongest perpendicular to the electron's motion. Another perspective is that it is proportional to the electric field and is the result of a moving electric field. However, if the electric field is changing, the resulting magnetic field becomes more complex. It is unclear which perspective is correct and there are specific equations for the electric and magnetic fields in advanced EM textbooks.
  • #1
granpa
2,268
7
if the magnetic field of an electron is thought of as being due to a current then the curl of the mugnetic field is nonzero only where the electric change exists. the field is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the charge and is strongest perpendicular to its motion and tends toward zero in the direction of its motion. very simple.

or if we think of the magnetic field at every point as being proportional to EXV then we get the same result but with a different interpretation. the magnetic field becomes the result of a MOVING (not changing) electric field. but that only works if the electric field extends forever (as the magnetic field would extend forever even if the electric field didnt).

but what if the magnetic field is thought of as being due to a changing electric field? then its not so simple. then the curl of the magnetic field is nonzero all over the place and I have no idea what the resulting field would look like.

so which is the case?
 
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  • #2
There are specific equations for the electric and magnetic fields of a moving electron in advanced EM textbooks. The B field satisfies Maxwell's curl B equation.
 
  • #3
so the answer is 'both'?

I've never read or ever heard mentioned anything about the magnetic field of a moving electron due to changing electric field. yet it sounds like it could be very important. what really bothers me is how would an observer moving along with the electron view it?
 

1. What is the magnetic field of an electron?

The magnetic field of an electron refers to the strength and direction of the magnetic force produced by an electron as it moves through space.

2. How is the magnetic field of an electron created?

The magnetic field of an electron is created by the movement of the electron, specifically its spin and orbital motion.

3. How does the magnetic field of an electron interact with other particles?

The magnetic field of an electron can interact with other particles through the magnetic force, which can attract or repel particles with opposite or similar charges, respectively.

4. How does the strength of the magnetic field of an electron vary?

The strength of the magnetic field of an electron depends on the speed and direction of its movement, as well as the distance from the electron.

5. What are some practical applications of the magnetic field of an electron?

The magnetic field of an electron is used in a wide range of technologies, including electric motors, generators, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines.

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