Field momentum inside a parallel plate capacitor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of "field momentum" within a parallel plate capacitor, specifically examining the implications of charge densities on the plates and the absence of a magnetic field. Participants explore the relationship between the Poynting vector and field momentum, as well as the potential for net flow of field momentum into a defined volume.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the momentum may be proportional to the Poynting vector (E x B), suggesting that without a magnetic field, field momentum could be zero.
  • Another participant questions whether the net flow of field momentum into the cubic volume Omega could be zero, raising concerns about the implications of such a conclusion.
  • There is a discussion about the absence of current in the dielectric and its effect on the presence of a magnetic field.
  • A later reply highlights that the volume under consideration does not include the negative plate, prompting a reevaluation of whether this affects the field momentum.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty regarding the field momentum being zero and whether there is a net flow of field momentum into the cubic volume Omega. Multiple competing views remain on the implications of the charge distribution and the geometry of the system.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks specific details about the configuration of the capacitor and the assumptions regarding the magnetic field and current flow, which may influence the conclusions drawn about field momentum.

brian0918
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The system is a parallel plate capacitor, top plate has charge density sigma, bottom play has charge density -sigma. I'm looking for the "field momentum" inside the cubic volume Omega shown in the picture.

My book (Griffiths) is a little unclear on exactly what this is, and seems to be saying that the momentum is proportional to the Poynting vector ExB, so since there doesn't seem to be a magnetic field, this would suggest the field momentum is zero.

Is this correct?


The only problem I'm having is that, later in the problem, it asks if there's a net flow of field momentum into the cube, so I'm thinking there's more to the problem than what I'm seeing. Could anyone help clear this up?


Thanks.
 

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Unless you have current flowing through the dielectric or it's part of an AC circuit you won't have a magnetic field. Is there any other information provided?
 
There's no other information. So the field momentum is indeed zero?

What about a net flow of the field momentum into the cubic volume Omega?
 
brian0918 said:
There's no other information. So the field momentum is indeed zero?

What about a net flow of the field momentum into the cubic volume Omega?

That would imply an infinite buildup of momentum/energy over time not to mention there is no source for that.
 
Are you sure about the net flow into volume Omega being zero? If you look at the picture, the volume doesn't include the negative plate, just the positive plate. Does this change anything? The book doesn't explain this at all.
 

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