What are the Relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations?

In summary, the conversation discusses the differences between non-relativistic and relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations, particularly in terms of the B-field equation for a circular current loop. It is mentioned that the Lorentz factor plays a role in the magnitude of the B-field in the relativistic case. The conversation concludes with a request for a reference for Jefimenko's equations.
  • #1
tade
702
24
I would like to know what the Special Relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations are.An example of a noticeable difference between non-relativistic and relativistic cases is considering Jefimenko's equation for the B-field, for a magnetostatic circular current loop.

Jefimenko's B-field equation yields the magnitude of the B-field at the center of the loop similar to that of the Biot-Savart Law. (http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/curloo.html#c2)

loopc.gif


With the effects of special relativity in consideration, the magnitude of the B-field at the center of the loop is the Jefimenko/Biot-Savart magnitude multiplied by the Lorentz factor.

The Lorentz factor is based on the speed(s) of the moving electric charges whizzing about the circular loop.

So if you increase the speed of the charges, while keeping the magnitude of the current constant, the magnitude of the B-field will increase.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
tade said:
I would like to know what the Special Relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations are.

AFAIK they already are, assuming you're referring to the equations in terms of retarded potentials. But we need a reference to be sure; see below.

tade said:
Jefimenko's B-field equation

Please give a reference for where you are getting Jefimenko's equations from.
 
  • #3
We will leave this closed until a reference is provided.
 
Last edited:

1. What are Jefimenko's equations?

Jefimenko's equations are a set of equations in electromagnetism that describe the electric and magnetic fields produced by a time-varying charge distribution. They are used to calculate the fields at a point in space and time, given the charge and current densities at previous times.

2. What is the significance of Jefimenko's equations?

Jefimenko's equations are significant because they provide a complete and consistent description of the electric and magnetic fields in electromagnetism. They also demonstrate the interdependence of electric and magnetic fields, and how they are affected by the motion of charges.

3. What are the relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations?

The relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations are modified versions of the original equations that take into account the effects of special relativity. These equations are used to describe the electric and magnetic fields in situations where objects are moving at high speeds.

4. How do the relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations differ from the original equations?

The relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations include additional terms that account for the time dilation and length contraction effects of special relativity. They also take into account the relativistic addition of velocities, which affects the motion of charges and the resulting electric and magnetic fields.

5. In what situations are the relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations necessary?

The relativistic versions of Jefimenko's equations are necessary in situations where objects are moving at high speeds, close to the speed of light. This includes scenarios such as particle accelerators, where particles are accelerated to near-light speeds, as well as astronomical phenomena such as pulsars and black holes, where relativistic effects are significant.

Similar threads

  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
26
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
2
Views
844
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
219
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
47
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
49
Views
3K
  • Special and General Relativity
2
Replies
42
Views
4K
  • Beyond the Standard Models
Replies
9
Views
508
Back
Top