Faraday's law for an infinite magnetic field slab

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of Faraday's Law to an infinite slab of uniform magnetic field, specifically how an increase in the magnetic field magnitude induces an electric field. The relevant equation, ∇ × E = -∂B/∂t, is highlighted as crucial for understanding the relationship between the changing magnetic field and the induced electric field. Participants express confusion regarding the symmetry of the electric field and the nature of the magnetic field slab, which extends infinitely in two dimensions (x and y) while pointing in the z-direction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction
  • Familiarity with vector calculus, particularly curl operations
  • Knowledge of magnetic field properties and symmetry
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of Faraday's Law in different geometrical configurations
  • Explore the concept of magnetic field symmetry and its effects on induced electric fields
  • Learn about the mathematical treatment of electromagnetic fields using Maxwell's equations
  • Investigate practical applications of induced electric fields in engineering and physics
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to Faraday's Law and magnetic fields.

ehrenfest
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Homework Statement


The magnitude of an infinite slab of uniform magnetic field is increased. What is the electric field induced by Faraday's Law


Homework Equations




\nabla \times \mathbf{E} = -\frac{\partial \mathbf{B}}{\partial t}

The Attempt at a Solution


Choose any point inside the slab. Because the magnetic field is radially symmetric about that point, the electric field must also be radially symmetric. By radially symmetric, I mean radially symmetric in a plane parallel to the slab planes. But if you choose any other point, the electric field must also be radially symmetric about that point. This can only happen if the electric field points perpendicular to the slab planes. But that violates Faraday's law...I'm confused.
 
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ehrenfest said:
.I'm confused.

So am I...what do you mean by "an infinite slab of uniform magnetic field"?...Does the slab extend to infinity in all three dimensions or just 2 or 3? Are you told which direction the uniform field point in?

Please write out the complete original problem statement, word for word.
 
Its a problem I thought up myself. The magnetic field extends out to infinity in two directions (say x and y) and it points in the third direction (z).
 

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