How to Derive Equation (1.24) for Potential Due to a Dipole Layer?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving equation (1.24) for the potential due to a dipole layer. Participants emphasize the importance of using the Taylor approximation on the second integral, specifically substituting \(\mathbf{x}\) with \(\mathbf{x}-\mathbf{x}'\) and \(\mathbf{a}\) with \(\mathbf{n}d\). The key insight is that the second integral contributes two terms, one of which cancels with the first integral, leading to the desired result as the limit is taken in the definition of \(D(\mathbf{x}')\). A clear understanding of the mathematical arguments behind assumptions is crucial for this derivation.

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Homework Statement



I wonder if anyone could explain me how to arrive at the equation (1.24). I have attached the part of the book where this appears.


Homework Equations



I have attached the part of the book where this appears.

The Attempt at a Solution



I have tried to make the second integral zero by performing the gradient and then the remaining algebra but i can't get to this, i suppose that the second integral is zero because in the expression (1.24) it doesn't appear. Using the term that has been expanded i tried to arrive at the integrand in (1.24) but i think that i have to make the second integral zero before this.
 

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No, you do not assume that the second integral is zero. If you are going to make assumptions like this, you need to come up with a good physical or mathematical argument for your assumption.

Instead, notice that the given Taylor approximation can be used on the second integral with [itex]\mathbf{x}\to \mathbf{x}-\mathbf{x}'[/itex] and [itex]\mathbf{a}\to \mathbf{n}d[/itex] :

[tex]\frac{1}{|\mathbf{x}-\mathbf{x}'+\mathbf{n}d|}=\frac{1}{|\mathbf{x}-\mathbf{x}'|}+\mathbf{n}d\cdot \mathbf{\nabla}\left(\frac{1}{|\mathbf{x}-\mathbf{x}'|}\right)+\ldots[/tex]

To first order in [itex]d[/itex], the second integral will give you two terms; one of which will cancel the first integral, and the other produces the desired result as you take the limit in the definition of [itex]D(\mathbf{x}')[/itex].
 
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