E-field of a constant velocity charged particle

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    Charged Electric Field
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the electric field (E-field) generated by a charged particle moving at constant velocity. Participants explore the representation of this field in graphical form, questioning the accuracy and clarity of the plotted diagrams, and discussing the implications of different representations of the E-field in relation to the motion of the particle.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants emphasize the need for clear labeling in diagrams to convey meaning effectively.
  • There are differing interpretations of what the lines and dots in the diagrams represent, with some stating that lines are E-fields and black dots trace the particle's path.
  • Concerns are raised about the presence of closed loops in the E-field lines, which some argue is incorrect as E-field lines should originate from charges.
  • Participants question the methodology used to plot the E-field, asking for clarification on whether it is a 2D or 3D plot and what specific quantities are represented.
  • Some suggest that the graphical representation may imply infinite information travel velocity if straight lines are used, while others argue that this is not the case.
  • There is a discussion about the relationship between the E-field and the magnetic field in the context of a moving charge, with some noting that the E-field is affected by the charge's motion.
  • Participants express uncertainty about the implications of the plotted curves and how they relate to the actual position of the particle over time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the accuracy of the plotted E-field representation, with multiple competing views on the interpretation of the diagrams and the underlying physics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct depiction of the E-field for a moving charge.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of the diagrams and the descriptions provided by participants, leading to confusion about the plotted quantities and their physical significance. The discussion highlights the dependence on definitions and assumptions regarding the representation of electric fields in motion.

  • #31
Ibix said:
The field around a straight current carrying conductor is a magnetic field with no electric field.
I've a doubt here. In the model of straight conductor carrying current (a flow of electrons moving with constant velocity) is the net charge inside each volume/segment of the conductor supposed to be zero (due to the presence of positive metal ions) ?
 
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  • #32
cianfa72 said:
I've a doubt here. In the model of straight conductor carrying current (a flow of electrons moving with constant velocity) is the net charge inside each volume/segment of the conductor supposed to be zero (due to the presence of positive metal ions) ?
you are right, even the hydrogen atom is a dipole, i.e. has a electric field
 
  • #33
aliinuur said:
you are right, even the hydrogen atom is a dipole, i.e. has a electric field
Since the 1s ground state of the hydrogen atom is spherically-symmetric, can you tell us in which direction this electric field points?
 
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  • #34
renormalize said:
Since the 1s ground state of the hydrogen atom is spherically-symmetric, can you tell us in which direction this electric field points?
its dipole moment has equal chance of pointing in any direction :)
 
  • #36
The thread will remain closed. Thanks for all who tried to help
 

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