Do Electric and Magnetic Field Energies Depend on Their Sources?

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SUMMARY

The energy of electric and magnetic fields is intrinsically linked to their sources, as demonstrated by the behavior of electromagnets. When an electromagnet is powered, the energy is stored in the field created by the electron flow. Upon switching off the current, the collapsing field induces a new electron flow, resulting in a spark across the switch. This phenomenon illustrates that field energy is not merely scattered in space but is directly dependent on the presence and behavior of its sources.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetism principles
  • Familiarity with electric circuits and components
  • Knowledge of electron flow and magnetic field generation
  • Basic concepts of energy storage in fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of electromagnetic induction
  • Explore the relationship between electric current and magnetic fields
  • Investigate the behavior of inductors in circuits
  • Learn about energy conservation in electromagnetic systems
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Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of electromagnetism and energy storage in electric and magnetic fields.

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Homework Statement



Do the energy of the electric and magnetic field depend on their sources or are they scattred all over the space when the fieldds are different from zero?
 
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I think the energy is stored in the field. As an example, if you power up an electromagnet by switching it on and then using a potentiometer to increase the flow of electricity. When you abruptly switch it off you'll get a spark across the switch (could be really big depending on the strength of the field).

The interpretation was that the electron flow created the field and when you stop the flow then the field collapses inducing a new electron flow that jumps the gap of the open switch.
 

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