Angular momentum in ElectroMagnetic fields(Feynman's Disk Paradox)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the angular momentum density in electromagnetic fields as presented in Griffiths' "Introduction to Electrodynamics," specifically in example 8.4 related to Feynman's Disk Paradox. The participants assert that while Griffiths calculates the angular momentum density to point in the z direction, it should also include an s component when considering the vector \vec{r} = s\hat{s} + z\hat{z}. The conclusion drawn is that Griffiths may have overlooked the s component, although the total angular momentum ultimately retains only a z component due to cancellation of the xy components during integration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum in physics
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic field theory
  • Knowledge of vector calculus
  • Basic concepts from Griffiths' "Introduction to Electrodynamics"
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Griffiths' example 8.4 in "Introduction to Electrodynamics" for detailed context
  • Explore the implications of angular momentum density in electromagnetic fields
  • Research the mathematical treatment of vector components in cylindrical coordinates
  • Examine the cancellation of components in electromagnetic field integrals
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism, researchers exploring angular momentum in electromagnetic fields, and educators seeking to clarify concepts related to Feynman's Disk Paradox.

Henriamaa
Messages
14
Reaction score
1
In Griffiths book, "Introduction to Electrodynamics" example 8.4 he calculates the angular momentum density for a set up that is a version of Feynman disk paradox. His answer for the angular momentum points in the z direction. But if we you assume that the r vector has component in the s direction and z direction(I am almost sure this is correct) \vec{r} = s\hat{s}+ z\hat{z}, then the angular momentum density has both a z component and s component. The s component is not constant. The total angular moment on the other hand has to end up with only z component or the cylinders would tip over. Where is the error in my reasoning?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It seems to me you've made no error. The angular momentum density should in fact have an \hat{s} component for z \neq 0. It seems Griffths neglected this. However, there is no xy component of the total angular momentum of EM field; it cancels out in via integration.
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K