Maxwell's Capacitor argument for a time independent Current

In summary, the Maxwell's Capacitor argument states that the current in a circuit is time independent, based on the concept of displacement current being equal to conduction current. This argument is derived from Maxwell's equations and can only be applied to circuits with a constant voltage source and no changing magnetic fields. Its significance lies in its ability to reconcile discrepancies in electromagnetism and its role in developing Maxwell's equations. However, there are limitations to this argument, such as its applicability only to steady-state circuits and not accounting for temperature or resistance.
  • #1
Shreya
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Homework Statement
Why can't we apply the. Maxwells argument to a time independent Current applied to a capacitor, to conclude the existence of a displacement Current inside a capacitor?
Maxwells argument considered a pot like surface between the plates of a capacitor with its open end outside. And argued that since the current enclosed is 0, B must be 0 just inside the capacitor, which is not true.
Relevant Equations
Ampere Maxwell Law
Is it because the current applied to a capacitor will never be time independent? Please help me out🙏
 
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  • #2
Sorry, what is a "time independent current"? Can you define that, or give some examples?
 
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  • #3
berkeman said:
Sorry, what is a "time independent current"? Can you define that, or give some examples?
What I meant was a constant current - one which is not a function of t. A time dependent current would be AC Current. I am not sure if the name time independent is correct.
 

1. What is Maxwell's Capacitor argument for a time independent Current?

Maxwell's Capacitor argument is a theoretical explanation for the existence of a time independent current in a circuit. It states that in a circuit with a capacitor, the electric field created by the capacitor will induce a displacement current, which contributes to the overall current in the circuit.

2. How does Maxwell's Capacitor argument relate to Faraday's law?

Maxwell's Capacitor argument is based on Faraday's law of induction, which states that a changing magnetic field will induce an electric field. In the case of a capacitor, the changing electric field created by the capacitor will induce a magnetic field, which in turn will induce a displacement current.

3. Can Maxwell's Capacitor argument be applied to all circuits?

No, Maxwell's Capacitor argument is specifically applicable to circuits with capacitors. In circuits without capacitors, the displacement current is negligible and can be ignored.

4. How does Maxwell's Capacitor argument affect the behavior of a circuit?

Maxwell's Capacitor argument explains the presence of a time independent current in a circuit, which can affect the overall behavior of the circuit. It can result in a more stable and consistent current flow, as well as affect the impedance and frequency response of the circuit.

5. Is Maxwell's Capacitor argument widely accepted in the scientific community?

Yes, Maxwell's Capacitor argument is a well-established and widely accepted explanation in the scientific community for the existence of a time independent current in circuits with capacitors. It is consistent with experimental observations and is an important concept in the study of electromagnetism and circuit theory.

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