Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion

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In summary, there is no straightforward way to determine a given four-vector in MKS units. Conversion between MKS and Gaussian units requires knowledge of both a left and right hand side of the equation, as well as understanding the conventions for dividing up units between fields, sources, and constants. Without looking at the equations, it is difficult to derive the proper conversion.
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Born2bwire
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Is there a straightforward way to determine a given four-vector in MKS units? Our system of units is MKS but I need to use some results from special relativity and of course all the sources use Gaussian units. Jackson has a simple chart in his appendix on converting between the two systems, but it seems to require knowledge of both a left hand and right hand side of the equation. That is,

[tex]\nabla\cdot\mathbf{E} = 4\pi\rho \quad \rightarrow \quad \nabla\cdot\mathbf{E} = \frac{\rho}{\epsilon_0} [/tex]

The proper conversion here requires you to change units on both sides of the equation to get the correct MKS version. So when I see on Wikipedia and Weisstein's sites that the four-current and four-potential in MKS are:

[tex] A^\alpha = \left(\frac{\Phi}{c}, \ \mathbf{A}\right) [/tex]
[tex] J^\alpha = \left(\frac{\rho}{\epsilon_0}, \ \mu_0 \mathbf{J}\right) [/tex]

I can't figure out how you would derive the conversion.
 
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Born2bwire said:
I can't figure out how you would derive the conversion

I don't think you can "derive" the conversion without looking at the equations. The different systems of units involve different conventions for how the units are "divided up" between the fields/potentials, the sources, and arbitrary constants. The only way to know what those conventions are is to look at the equations in both systems of units.
 

Related to Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion

1. What is Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion?

Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion is a mathematical process used to convert values from the Gaussian unit system to the MKS (meter-kilogram-second) unit system. It is commonly used in the fields of physics and engineering where Gaussian units are used for convenience, but MKS units are the standard for measurement.

2. Why is Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion important?

Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion is important because it allows for consistency and accuracy in measurements and calculations. It ensures that values are represented in the correct unit system and can be easily compared and used in equations.

3. How is Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion performed?

Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion is performed by using conversion factors or equations to convert each component of the four-vector (time, x, y, and z) from Gaussian units to MKS units. These conversion factors can vary depending on the specific quantity being converted.

4. What are some common Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion factors?

Some common conversion factors for Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion include:

  • Time: 1 Gaussian unit = 10^-15 seconds
  • Length: 1 Gaussian unit = 10^-5 meters
  • Mass: 1 Gaussian unit = 10^-3 kilograms

5. Are there any limitations to Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion?

While Gaussian to MKS Four-vector Conversion is a useful tool, it is important to note that it is not always applicable. Some physical quantities, such as temperature and electric charge, do not have direct conversion factors between Gaussian and MKS units. In these cases, more complex conversion methods may be needed.

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