Increase in internal energy due to polarization of a dielectric

In summary, the increase in internal energy due to polarization of a dielectric refers to the alignment of polar molecules in an external electric field, resulting in the storage of electrical potential energy. This process is reversible and affected by factors such as the strength of the electric field, dielectric constant, and distance between charges. The increase in internal energy can have various effects on the dielectric material, both positive and negative, and can be released through the de-polarization process.
  • #1
Fibo112
149
3
I have a plate capacitor with a given charge. It is then dipped in a dielectric fluid and I must determine which height the fluid reaches(all the necessary parameters are given). I can solve this problem if I make the following assumption: the polarization of the dielectric does not( or approximately does not) change its internal energy.

Is this a reasonable assumption? If so why?
 
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  • #2
Fibo112 said:
Is this a reasonable assumption?
No, it isn't. If you model polarisation P as a density of dipoles, what will be their energy in an electric field?
 

What is meant by the increase in internal energy due to polarization of a dielectric?

The increase in internal energy due to polarization of a dielectric refers to the phenomenon where the internal energy of a material increases as a result of the alignment of its polar molecules in an external electric field. This polarization process leads to the storage of electrical potential energy within the dielectric material.

How does polarization of a dielectric contribute to the increase in internal energy?

When a dielectric material is placed in an external electric field, its polar molecules align themselves with the direction of the field. This results in the separation of positive and negative charges within the material, leading to an increase in the internal energy of the material.

What factors affect the magnitude of increase in internal energy due to polarization?

The magnitude of increase in internal energy due to polarization depends on factors such as the strength of the external electric field, the dielectric constant of the material, and the distance between the charges within the material. A higher external field, higher dielectric constant, and smaller distance between charges will result in a greater increase in internal energy.

How does the increase in internal energy due to polarization affect the dielectric material?

The increase in internal energy due to polarization can have various effects on the dielectric material, such as increasing its temperature, causing changes in its physical properties, and influencing its electrical conductivity. These effects can have both positive and negative implications, depending on the specific application of the dielectric material.

Is the increase in internal energy due to polarization reversible?

Yes, the increase in internal energy due to polarization is reversible. When the external electric field is removed, the polar molecules in the dielectric material return to their original random orientation, and the stored electrical potential energy is released. This is known as the de-polarization process.

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