Electrostatic uniqueness theorem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the electrostatic uniqueness theorem, specifically addressing the conditions under which it applies. It highlights the significance of the third condition in electrostatics when using the method of images, which involves knowing the total charge of a conductor rather than the normal derivative of the potential at each surface point. This observation is supported by Franklin's "Classical Electromagnetism," which asserts that the electric field is uniquely determined if either the potential or charge is specified on each conductor. The lack of mention of this condition in many texts raises questions about its recognition in the field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrostatics principles
  • Familiarity with the method of images in electrostatics
  • Knowledge of Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions
  • Basic concepts of electric potential and charge distribution
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of images in electrostatics
  • Review boundary value problems in electrostatics
  • Examine Franklin's "Classical Electromagnetism" for detailed insights
  • Explore the implications of charge distribution on electric fields
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on electrostatics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of electric fields and potentials.

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There is one thing I don't understand about this and is that besides the Dirichlet and Neumann conditions there seems to be a third one which is important when the method of images is used and is never mentioned. The problem is that Newmann condition requires especification of [itex]\frac{\partial\phi }{\partial \eta}[/itex] at each point on the surface while in electrostaics problems one many times knows two conditions,
a) the potencial is constant on the limit surfaces, and b) you don't know the normal derivative of phi at each point on the surface but you know the total charge of the conductor,ie, [itex]\oint_S\frac{\partial\phi }{\partial \eta}ds[/itex] in which case the uniqueness theorem also seems to follow easily.
Can someone please tell me where I'm wrong or if this is not the case why this
importan observation is never even mentioned in texts?
 
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That case is covered in Sec. 3.1.1 of Franklin "Classical Electromagnetism", which states
"the electric field is uniquely specified ... if either the potential or charge is specified on each conductor."
 
Thank you, I will look for that
 

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