Finding a scalar field given two gauge fields

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on demonstrating the equivalence between the gauge fields A1=(0,bx,0) and A2=(-yB/2,xB/2,0) and finding the scalar field Φ such that A1 = A2 + ∇Φ. The key equations involved are B = ∇ × A and the partial derivatives of Φ, specifically ∂Φ/∂x = By/2, ∂Φ/∂y = Bx/2, and ∂Φ/∂z = 0. The participant initially attempted to integrate incorrectly, leading to confusion regarding the scalar nature of Φ.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus, particularly gradient and divergence operations.
  • Familiarity with gauge fields and their mathematical representations.
  • Knowledge of partial differential equations and their solutions.
  • Experience with electromagnetic theory, specifically the relationship between electric and magnetic fields.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of solving partial differential equations, focusing on scalar fields.
  • Learn about the mathematical properties of gauge fields in electromagnetism.
  • Explore the concept of curl and divergence in vector calculus.
  • Review previous coursework on vector calculus to reinforce understanding of gradients and their applications.
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those specializing in electromagnetism, as well as mathematicians dealing with vector calculus and partial differential equations.

rwooduk
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Homework Statement


Demonstrate the equivalence between the gauge fields A1=(0,bx,0) and A2=)-yB/2,xB/2,0) and find the scalar field Φ for which A1= A2 + ∇Φ

Homework Equations


B = ∇XA

The Attempt at a Solution


The first part is fine, you just plug it into the above relevant equation and you get Bk for each. But I am unsure of the second part. I tried

A1 = A2 + ∇Φ ->>>

∇Φ = A1 - A2

Φ = (∫ yB/2 dx , ∫ (Bx - xB/2) dy, ∫ 0 dz)

but it was marked wrong with a "Φ is scalar!" comment.

it's probably really simple but just stuck on it.

as always thanks for any suggestions.
 
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You need to solve [tex] \frac{\partial \Phi}{\partial x} = \frac{By}{2}, \\<br /> \frac{\partial \Phi}{\partial y} = \frac{Bx}{2}, \\<br /> \frac{\partial \Phi}{\partial z} = 0.[/tex] Have you not had to solve such problems before?
 
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pasmith said:
You need to solve [tex] \frac{\partial \Phi}{\partial x} = \frac{By}{2}, \\<br /> \frac{\partial \Phi}{\partial y} = \frac{Bx}{2}, \\<br /> \frac{\partial \Phi}{\partial z} = 0.[/tex] Have you not had to solve such problems before?
ahh i remember now, it was covered in last years math, will dig out my notes. Thank you!
 

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