Electric Dipole in a Magnetic Field: Conservation of energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the conservation of energy in the context of an electric dipole in a magnetic field. Key equations include the center of mass velocity \(\vec{v}_{cm} = \frac{1}{2}(\vec{v}_1+\vec{v}_2)\) and the total energy expression \(E = \frac{1}{2}mv_{cm}^2 + \frac{1}{2}I\omega^2\). The transition from the first to the second line in the equations is clarified through the application of cross products and vector analysis. The conclusion emphasizes that taking the time derivative of energy confirms its conservation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector mathematics, specifically cross products
  • Familiarity with the concepts of center of mass and angular momentum
  • Knowledge of energy expressions in mechanics, particularly kinetic energy
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism related to dipoles
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector calculus focusing on cross products and their applications
  • Explore the concept of center of mass in multi-body systems
  • Learn about the conservation of energy in mechanical systems
  • Investigate the dynamics of electric dipoles in magnetic fields
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Students of physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism and mechanics, as well as educators looking for clear explanations of energy conservation principles in complex systems.

sparkle123
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Please help me with the attached question.

I don't understand how you get from the first line to the second line in (2). (I'm not too familiar with working with cross products and vectors).

Also, I don't know how you get (5) from (1) and (2).

Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks! :)
 

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(2) the equality Comes from \vec{v}_{cm} = \dfrac{1}{2}(\vec{v}_1+\vec{v}_2)
(5) Try to wite down the full expression E = \dfrac{1}{2}mv_{cm}^2+\dfrac{1}{2}I\omega^2
Using (1) and (2)
And take the time derivitative(here dE/dt is indicated with a small dot above). Then you would see that the energy is conserved.
 
Thanks dikmikkel! :)
 

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