Electromagnetic mass of the electron

In summary, the electromagnetic mass of the electron is a theoretical concept used to describe the contribution of the electron's electric and magnetic fields to its overall mass. It is calculated using the electron's charge, velocity, and acceleration, and is important in studying electromagnetic phenomena and theories like quantum electrodynamics. While the electromagnetic mass does not change, the overall mass of the electron can change due to interactions with other particles and fields. The electromagnetic mass is not the same as the electron's rest mass, which is its intrinsic mass.
  • #1
relativityfan
75
0
hi, can anyone tell me why the mass of the electron is said to be electromagnetic?
does that mean that without this mass an electron could not interact with the electromagnetic interaction (cf neutrinos)?
 
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  • #2
It's not. Theories that tried to make that work ended up tangled in mathematical contradictions like 4/3 =1.
 
  • #3
Only a very small part of the electron mass is electromagnetic.
Google 'self induction'.
 

1. What is the electromagnetic mass of the electron?

The electromagnetic mass of the electron is a theoretical concept that describes the contribution of the electron's electric and magnetic fields to its overall mass. It is not a physical mass, but rather a mathematical term used in certain equations.

2. How is the electromagnetic mass of the electron calculated?

The electromagnetic mass of the electron is calculated using the electron's charge, its velocity, and its acceleration. It is also affected by external electric and magnetic fields that the electron may be exposed to.

3. What is the significance of the electromagnetic mass of the electron?

The electromagnetic mass of the electron is important in the study of electromagnetic phenomena, such as the behavior of electrons in electric and magnetic fields. It also plays a role in the development of theories such as quantum electrodynamics.

4. Does the electromagnetic mass of the electron change?

The electromagnetic mass of the electron does not change, as it is a theoretical concept. However, the overall mass of the electron can change due to its interaction with other particles and fields.

5. Is the electromagnetic mass of the electron the same as its rest mass?

No, the electromagnetic mass of the electron is not the same as its rest mass. The rest mass of the electron is its intrinsic mass, while the electromagnetic mass is a term used to describe its interaction with electric and magnetic fields.

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