How to Derive the Expression for \(\delta W = -E dP\)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving the expression for the work done, \(\delta W = -E dP\), in the context of changing electric fields in a dielectric slab. The subject area includes concepts from electrostatics and energy in capacitors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between work, charge, and electric field, with one participant questioning how to eliminate a factor of 2 in the expression for work. Others discuss the implications of changing charge and distance on the work done.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants offering various insights into the relationships between charge, distance, and electric field. There is no explicit consensus, but several lines of reasoning are being explored regarding the changes in charge and their effects on the work done.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster references a specific textbook for context, indicating that the problem may have constraints based on the material covered in that chapter.

appmathstudent
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Homework Statement
This is exercise 3-12 form Sears and Salinger Thermodynamics : Show that $$\delta W = -E dP$$ by calculating the work necessary to charge a parallel plate capacitor containing a dielectric.
Relevant Equations
$$W = U = \frac{q^2}{2C}$$
$$ C = \frac{\kappa \epsilon_0 A}{d}$$
$$P = qd $$ (dipole moment of slab)
$$ E = \frac{q}{\epsilon_0 \kappa A}$$
$$W = U = \frac{q^2}{2C} =\frac{q q d}{2 \kappa \epsilon_0 A} = \frac{E P}{2}$$

Then , since E is constant we have that :

$$\delta W = \frac{dW}{dP} dP = \frac{E}{2} dP$$.

My question is how can I make this 2 on the denominator disappear in order to obtain the required expression ?

ps : In the book (Chapter 3 page 67) he mentions that $$\delta W$$ is the work when $$E$$ is changed in a dielectric slab.
 
Last edited:
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dP=d(qD)=(dq) D+ q (dD)
where D is distance between the capacitor plates introduced to distinguish it with differential d.
Which is your case changing charge or changing distance or the both ?
 
Last edited:
I think q is changing, since the work is done to change E.
 

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appmathstudent said:
I think q is changing, since the work is done to change E.
So you are saying E is not constant during the charging process.
 
appmathstudent said:
I think q is changing, since the work is done to change E.
q is changing, d is constant so
dP=d(dq)
\frac{dW}{dP}=\frac{1}{d}\frac{dW}{dq}
Try it.
 
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