Finding Vector Potential of Infinite Solenoid

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on finding the vector potential of an infinite solenoid characterized by its turns per unit length, radius, and current. Participants explore theoretical approaches and mathematical formulations related to this topic.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests assistance in determining the vector potential of an infinite solenoid, emphasizing the challenge posed by the infinite extent of the current.
  • Another participant suggests writing the equation for vector potential to facilitate further guidance.
  • A participant notes that the infinite solenoid has a uniform magnetic field along its axis and states that the vector potential is not unique, indicating that any function whose curl yields the magnetic field is valid.
  • Another contribution proposes using Stoke's theorem to relate the line integral of the vector potential to the magnetic field, suggesting a method for calculating the vector potential.
  • A participant reiterates the initial question about finding the vector potential and provides a specific formula for the vector potential based on the magnetic field inside and outside the solenoid.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the usefulness of the thread, noting its age but acknowledges it might still benefit others.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches and interpretations regarding the calculation of the vector potential, indicating that there is no consensus on a single method or solution.

Contextual Notes

Some mathematical steps and assumptions regarding the uniformity of the magnetic field and the conditions under which the vector potential is defined remain unresolved.

heman
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How to find the Vector Potential of an infinite solenoid with n turns per unit length,radius R and current I.
since here current extends to infinty..
How will it be done
Pls Help
 
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Heman, please try to write the equation for vector potential. Then we can better point you in the right direction.

You can use LateX - see the thread on Math applications of LateX - https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=8997 (General physics forum).
 
The infinite solenoid has a uniform magnetic field parallel to the solenoid axis. Let that axis be the z axis, for concreteness. So [itex]\mathbf {B}=B \mathbf {k}[/itex]. Now the vector potential is [itex]\mathbf {B}=\nabla \times \mathbf {A}[/itex]. The vector potential is not unique, so any vector-valued function [itex]\mathbf {A}[/itex] whose curl gives you [itex]B \mathbf{k}[/itex] will fit the bill.
 
You may consider using the following:
gradXA = B
then use Stoke's theorem to write surface int(gradXA.dS) = line int (A.dl), with the closed curve chosen suitably.

This gives line int(A.dl) = int(B.ds).

The surface integral is straight forward while a reasonable choic eof the closed curve makes the line integral staright forward.

Of help?
 
heman said:
How to find the Vector Potential of an infinite solenoid with n turns per unit length,radius R and current I.
since here current extends to infinty..
How will it be done
Pls Help

The line integral of A around a closed path is equal to the flux of B through the path. For an infinitely long solenoid, B = (n)(I)/((eps0)(c^2)) at internal points. (B = 0 at all points outside of the solenoid.) Thus the flux of B inside the solenoid is (pi)(R^2)(n)(I)/((eps0)(c^2)). At a distance r>R from the solenoid's axis, (2)(pi)(r)(A)=flux of B. That is,

A=(n)(I)(R^2)/((2)(eps0)(c^2)(r))
 
jimmy neutron said:
Of help?

I don't think so. In fact the thread is 5 years old. It might be of help for further people though.
 

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