Is My Solution to Problem 2 in Electrodynamics Correct?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the correctness of a solution to Problem 2 in Electrodynamics, specifically regarding the potential function in a charge-free volume. The user correctly identifies Ro as |xo - x'| and notes that the charge density ρ(x') is zero, leading to the vanishing of the first term in the potential equation. The application of the divergence theorem is also correctly utilized, resulting in the expression for the electric field E. A minor correction is suggested regarding the notation for the derivative of 1/Ro, which should be clarified to avoid confusion.

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Homework Statement



I'd type this out but there's a bit too much formulae.
http://www.maths.tcd.ie/~tristan/MA3431/Homework_1.pdf

It's problem 2. I'm just wondering if my solution is correct.

Thanks in advance!

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



In this problem I'm taking Ro = |xo - x'|

The volume in question is charge-free so the charge density, ρ(x'), is zero so the first term on the right hand side of the potential vanishes.

Also, ∂/∂n(1/Ro) = -1/R2o

Substituting this into the potential function gives the required result.


For the second part of 2 we use the divergence theorem (which I won't state here due to my lack of latex skills) as told.

We know that ∂[itex]\Phi[/itex]/∂n = ∇[itex]\Phi[/itex].n and from the definition of the electric field E we end up with -E.n.

When this is used in the divergence theorem we end up with the volume integral of ∇.E which is equal to ρ/ε which vanishes in a charge free volume.

We now have the required expression.


(Haven't gotten to part 3 yet, will be posted soon.)

I know I haven't explained everything in a great way, but it's a lot easier on paper than it is online to write out loads of partials and surface integrals.
 
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Maybe_Memorie said:

Homework Statement



I'd type this out but there's a bit too much formulae.
http://www.maths.tcd.ie/~tristan/MA3431/Homework_1.pdf

It's problem 2. I'm just wondering if my solution is correct.

Thanks in advance!

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



In this problem I'm taking Ro = |xo - x'|

The volume in question is charge-free so the charge density, ρ(x'), is zero so the first term on the right hand side of the potential vanishes.

Also, ∂/∂n(1/Ro) = -1/R2o
Perhaps it was just a typo, but the lefthand side should be written
$$\left.\frac{\partial}{\partial n}\left(\frac{1}{R}\right)\right|_{R=R_0}.$$ The way you wrote it, you're differentiating the constant 1/R0, so the lefthand side would be equal to 0.

Other than that, what you've done sounds fine.
 

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