Charge density for a disk moving at constant velocity

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on formulating charge densities using delta functions for a disk moving at a constant velocity along the z-axis. The participant correctly identifies the charge density as ρ(x,t) = Q/(πR²)δ(z - vt), representing a uniform charge density over the disk. The clarification provided emphasizes that the metric of the z-coordinate in cylindrical coordinates is 1, confirming the participant's approach is accurate without additional factors. This understanding is crucial for calculating the electric field and Cherenkov radiation emitted by the disk.

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Problem Statement: I'm having some trouble understanding how to write charge densities using delta functions, particularly when they involve geometries other than Cartesian. So I have a disk moving with velocity v (along the z-axis) that has total charge Q, and I'm trying to write ρ(x,t) so that I can calculate the electric field (and eventually the Cherenkov radiation emitted by the disk).

Attempt at a Solution So I think I'd write something like this: ρ(x,t)=Q/(pi*R^2)delta(z-vt). So I've got a uniform charge density over the disk, and it's zero except at the z-coordinate of the disk. But I don't know if I'm missing some factors out front, since I'm in cylindrical coordinates.

If I'm not going about this the right way at all please enlighten me.
 
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You did it right, the metric of the z coordinate in cylindrical system is 1.
 
Last edited:
Oh! I get it now. Thanks a bunch, you've cleared up all my confusion with when factors are needed.
 

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