How Does the Magnetic Field Behave Around a Moving Electron?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the behavior of the magnetic field around a moving electron, emphasizing that the magnetic field is influenced by both the electric field and the motion of the electron. It is established that the magnetic field is strongest perpendicular to the electron's motion and diminishes in the direction of motion, following the inverse square law. The conversation also touches on the implications of considering the magnetic field as a result of either a moving electric field or a changing electric field, referencing Maxwell's equations. The conclusion suggests that both interpretations may be valid, highlighting the complexity of electromagnetic interactions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Maxwell's equations
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic theory
  • Knowledge of electric and magnetic field interactions
  • Basic concepts of electron motion in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Maxwell's curl equations in detail
  • Explore the relationship between electric and magnetic fields in advanced electromagnetic theory
  • Investigate the implications of the Lorentz force on moving charges
  • Examine the concept of electromagnetic waves and their propagation
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, electrical engineers, and students of electromagnetism seeking to deepen their understanding of the interactions between electric and magnetic fields, particularly in the context of moving charges.

granpa
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if the magnetic field of an electron is thought of as being due to a current then the curl of the mugnetic field is nonzero only where the electric change exists. the field is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the charge and is strongest perpendicular to its motion and tends toward zero in the direction of its motion. very simple.

or if we think of the magnetic field at every point as being proportional to EXV then we get the same result but with a different interpretation. the magnetic field becomes the result of a MOVING (not changing) electric field. but that only works if the electric field extends forever (as the magnetic field would extend forever even if the electric field didnt).

but what if the magnetic field is thought of as being due to a changing electric field? then its not so simple. then the curl of the magnetic field is nonzero all over the place and I have no idea what the resulting field would look like.

so which is the case?
 
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There are specific equations for the electric and magnetic fields of a moving electron in advanced EM textbooks. The B field satisfies Maxwell's curl B equation.
 
so the answer is 'both'?

I've never read or ever heard mentioned anything about the magnetic field of a moving electron due to changing electric field. yet it sounds like it could be very important. what really bothers me is how would an observer moving along with the electron view it?
 

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