Electrodynamics and the Poynting theorem

In summary, Feynman provides an interesting example of a point charge near a bar magnet, where the rotating Poynting vector generates angular momentum in the EM field. This is demonstrated by the charge being deflected towards the center by the Lorentz force, transferring momentum to the EM field and creating angular momentum. This shows that the Poynting vector can be applied to both static EM fields and cases involving circuit currents and EM waves.
  • #1
AHSAN MUJTABA
89
4
Homework Statement
In static fields, why there exists a field momentum? And if it exists then what's the meaning of it?
Relevant Equations
##S=\frac{1}{\mu_o}(\vec E\times\vec B)##
In my opinion the field momentum is the field's intrinsic momentum which it will give to charges(if any present)...
 
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  • #2
Hi. Feynman shows us an interesting example of a point charge sitting near the center of a bar magnet, as shown in Fig. 27–6. Here rotating Poynting vector generates EM field angular momentum. I will explain it.

Let us prepare the system by carrying the charge from infinite distance to the center where the magnetic bar is laid. Lorentz force jams the charge to come to the center by deflection so we apply force on charge sideway. Momentum is transferred to EM field. Thus accumulated momentum in EM field generates the angular momentum.

So it shows that Poynting vector is applicable in static EM field as well as cases of circuit currents and EM waves.
 
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Likes vanhees71
  • #3
Thanks it's very deep and helped a lot.
 

1. What is electrodynamics?

Electrodynamics is a branch of physics that studies the interactions between electrically charged particles and electromagnetic fields. It is a fundamental theory that explains the behavior of electricity and magnetism at a macroscopic level.

2. What is the Poynting theorem?

The Poynting theorem is a fundamental law in electrodynamics that describes the flow of electromagnetic energy in a given system. It states that the rate of change of electromagnetic energy in a region is equal to the sum of the work done by the electric and magnetic fields on the charges in that region.

3. How is the Poynting theorem derived?

The Poynting theorem is derived from Maxwell's equations, which are a set of four equations that describe the behavior of electromagnetic fields. By taking the dot product of the electric and magnetic fields, and using the divergence and curl operators, the Poynting theorem can be derived.

4. What is the significance of the Poynting theorem?

The Poynting theorem is significant because it provides a mathematical framework for understanding the transfer of energy through electromagnetic fields. It is used in a wide range of applications, from understanding the behavior of radio waves to designing efficient power transmission systems.

5. Can the Poynting theorem be applied to all types of electromagnetic waves?

Yes, the Poynting theorem can be applied to all types of electromagnetic waves, including visible light, radio waves, and X-rays. This is because all electromagnetic waves are governed by the same fundamental laws and equations, including Maxwell's equations and the Poynting theorem.

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