Field Angular Momentum (Thomson Dipole)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the angular momentum density of a Thomson dipole, specifically addressing the components in the x and z directions. The participant expresses skepticism regarding the integration of the x component, which is claimed to equal zero according to the textbook solution. Key equations referenced include the relationship between the Poynting vector and momentum density, as well as the expression for the position vector in terms of its components. The participant is encouraged to explore the integration of the angular momentum components over the azimuthal angle, φ.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum density in electromagnetic fields
  • Familiarity with the Poynting vector and its implications
  • Knowledge of vector calculus, particularly integration over spherical coordinates
  • Basic concepts of Thomson dipole theory in electromagnetism
NEXT STEPS
  • Investigate the derivation of angular momentum density from the Poynting vector
  • Learn about integrating vector components in spherical coordinates
  • Study the implications of angular momentum in electromagnetic theory
  • Review Thomson dipole characteristics and their mathematical representations
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and angular momentum, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to Thomson dipoles.

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Homework Statement


I have attached the question as jpg to this post. Typing these were too time consuming and I uploaded the relevant sections as image files, thanks for your understanding.

Homework Equations



mu_0*epsilon_0*Poynting Vector = Momentum density

Position vector X Momentum density = Angular momentum density

The Attempt at a Solution


These too are attached in png format.

I have found out that angular momentum density has two components, one in the z direction and one in the x direction. According to the books solution the x component integrates to zero but I was unable to verify this and I am highly skeptical about this topic. Any help would be appreciated. I have attached the relevant information to this post.
 

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In constructing your equation (8), note that ##\hat{r}## will generally have a ##\hat{y}## component as well as ##\hat{x}## and ##\hat{z}## components: ##\hat{r} = (\hat{r} \cdot \hat{x}) \hat{x} + (\hat{r} \cdot \hat{y}) \hat{y} + (\hat{r} \cdot \hat{z}) \hat{z}##.

##\hat{r} \cdot \hat{x} = sin\theta cos\phi##, etc.

See what you get for the x and y components of the angular momentum when you integrate over ##\phi##.
 
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