Force on a Dipole: Calculation and Solution

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The discussion revolves around calculating the force on a second dipole positioned at (a,0,a) that is oriented towards a first dipole with moment p located at the origin. The key focus is on determining the electric field created by the first dipole, which influences the force experienced by the second dipole. The initial approach suggests using the formula F = v (p.E), emphasizing the need to clarify which electric field is relevant—specifically, that of the first dipole. The conversation highlights the importance of identifying the correct electric field to accurately compute the force on the second dipole. Understanding the interactions between the dipoles is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement



A dipole of moment p is lined up with the z-axis at the origin of coordinates. A second dipole of moment p is at the point (a,0,a) and is pointed towards the origin. What is the force on the second dipole?

Homework Equations



p = \int r' \rho (r) d \tau '

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried this:

F = v (p. E)
 
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The first step is to identify what causes the force on the second dipole...so what would that be in this case?
 
Electric field
 
Yes, but what electric field in particular? The electric field due to the second dipole? The electric field due to the first dipole? The electric field due to both dipoles? The electric field due to some strange charge distribution on the far side of the moon?
 
haha, of course not from the charge distribution on the far side of the moon.

The second dipole experiences the force due to the first dipole
 
Good, so what is the electric field of the first dipole?
 

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