Is Every Listed Force a Central Force?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the classification of forces as central or non-central. Central forces identified include action-reaction forces, Van der Waals forces, dipolar forces, and forces between current-carrying conductors, provided the magnetic field is time-independent. Non-central forces include viscous forces and Coriolis forces. Additionally, the interaction between electron spins is confirmed as a non-central force, as it resembles dipole interactions and does not adhere to the strong form of the third law of motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of central force concepts in classical mechanics
  • Familiarity with Van der Waals forces and dipolar interactions
  • Knowledge of the third law of motion and its applications in electrodynamics
  • Basic principles of magnetostatics and their implications on force interactions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the characteristics of central forces in classical mechanics
  • Study the mathematical expressions for dipolar forces and their implications
  • Explore the differences between classical and quantum mechanical force interactions
  • Learn about the implications of the third law of motion in electrodynamics and magnetostatics
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and researchers interested in classical mechanics, force interactions, and the distinctions between central and non-central forces.

neelakash
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Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution





Please check if I am correct:

The following are Central force:

a.Action and reaction forces between two bodies
b.Van der Waal's force between two molecules

c.dipolar force between two small magnets
d.Force between two current carrying conductors
e.Lorentz force on a charged particle

(c,d,e) are central as long as B field is time indipendent


the following are not:

a.Viscous force on a body falling through a liquid
b.Coriolis force on a body

I do not know QM...Can you please say whether force between two electron spin will be central...
 
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OK,I got the answer...

a) It is correct only when the strong form (central,like gravity) of 3rd law is assumed.
c)It means you have taken two bar magnets and their interaction.It is not central...can be understood from its expression:
U=(const)(1/r^5)[m1.m2-3(m1.r)(m2.r)]

So,the force is NOT central.

d)Any force to be central,the force centre is to be point-like...Here it is not obeyed.
e)In electrodynamics,3rd law of motion is NOT applicable...so, central interaction betweeen two charged particles is forbidden.In magnetostatics,the 3rd law is valid...but only its weak form(npon-central form).

Force between two electron spin is like the interaction between two dipoles...so,it is also non-central force.
 

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