Doubt regarding derivation of bound charges in dielectric

In summary, in Griffiths' discussion of deriving bound charges for a given polarization P, the general formula for dipoles (equation 4.9) is used. This formula calculates the potential at point r due to a dipole at point r'. The unit vector x in the direction of X = r - r', and X = r - r'. It is then shown that ∇'(1/X) = (1/X^2)\widehat{r'} in Cartesian coordinates. Further details of the derivation are outlined in the figure.
  • #1
nuclear_dog
15
0
In Griffiths, for deriving the bound charges for a given polarization P , the formula used is the general formula for dipoles .i.e ( equation 4.9)
{Here the potential at r is calculated due to the dipole at r' )

V(r) = ∫[itex]\frac{x.P(r')}{X^2}[/itex]d[itex]\tau'[/itex]

Here X = r - r' , and x = unit vector in the direction of X

Then it is written that [itex]\frac{x}{X^2}[/itex] = [itex]\nabla'[/itex](1/X).

since X = (r-r') , and ∇' = (∂/∂r')[itex]\widehat{r'}[/itex] ...

Shouldn't ∇'(1/X) be (1/X^2)[itex]\widehat{r'}[/itex] ?
 
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  • #2
It might be best to work it out in Cartesian coordinates where all coordinates are written explicitly. See if you can fill in the details of the derivation outlined in the figure.
 

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  • #3
Thanks , I can see that in Cartesian coordinates .
 

What is the derivation of bound charges in dielectric?

The derivation of bound charges in dielectric is based on the concept of polarization. When an external electric field is applied to a dielectric material, the atoms within the material become polarized and develop dipole moments. These dipole moments result in the formation of bound charges on the surface of the dielectric material.

How do bound charges affect the overall electric field in a dielectric?

Bound charges in a dielectric material contribute to the overall electric field by creating an opposing electric field that partially cancels out the external electric field. This results in a decrease in the net electric field within the dielectric material, making it a more insulating material.

Can bound charges be easily measured or observed?

No, bound charges cannot be easily measured or observed. Unlike free charges, which can be detected with instruments such as an electroscope, bound charges are not able to move freely and therefore cannot be measured in the same way. However, their effects can be observed indirectly through the changes in the electric field within a dielectric material.

What factors affect the magnitude of bound charges in a dielectric?

The magnitude of bound charges in a dielectric is affected by several factors, including the strength of the external electric field, the polarizability of the material, and the geometry of the dielectric. Materials with higher polarizability and larger surface area will have a higher magnitude of bound charges.

Can bound charges be completely eliminated from a dielectric material?

No, bound charges cannot be completely eliminated from a dielectric material. Even when the external electric field is removed, the bound charges will still remain on the surface of the material. However, their effects can be reduced by using materials with lower polarizability or by decreasing the strength of the external electric field.

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