Measuring E & B Fields in Moving Frame

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the transformation of electric (E) and magnetic (B) fields between two reference frames in special relativity. An observer at rest measures E = [0,0,60] N/C and B = [0,0,0]. A second observer moves at a speed of v = 0.8c in the +x direction. The transformed electric field E' and magnetic field B' are calculated using the Lorentz transformations, specifically F(em) = q[E + (v/c) × B]. The confusion arises regarding the application of these equations and the role of the magnetic field, which is zero in this scenario.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lorentz transformations in special relativity
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic force equations, specifically F(em) = q[E + (v/c) × B]
  • Knowledge of electric and magnetic field concepts
  • Basic principles of reference frames in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Lorentz transformation equations for electric and magnetic fields
  • Learn about the implications of special relativity on electromagnetic fields
  • Explore the concept of four-vectors in electromagnetism
  • Investigate the role of magnetic fields in moving reference frames
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying electromagnetism and special relativity, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to electric and magnetic field transformations.

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Homework Statement


Suppose E and B are measured by an ovserver at rest to be (in N/C)
E = [0,0,60] B = [0,0,0]

Now another observer travels close by in the +x direction at a constant speed of v = .8c with respect to the other observer.

A. What is E' be in the moving frame? DONE
b. what will B' be in the moving frame? DONE
c. If a charge q = 1micro C travels with the moving observer (v = .8c in the +x direction), what is the direction of F(em) according to the observer at rest?

d. what is the direction of F(em) according ot the observer moving along witht he charge?

Homework Equations



I assume F(em) = q[E + v/c X B] or the other ref frame version

The Attempt at a Solution



Which one do I use? If the observer is at rest, wouldn't he be seeing the v = .8 c ? That would not even matter cause B = 0 anyways right? I would still use F(em) = q[E + v/c X B] right?

for part D. I would use F'(em) = q[E' + v'/c X B'] where v' = ? would it be 0 because they are traveling same v?

I understand that F(em) ne F'(em) but what is also confusing is that in both cases, the E field is the only contributing factor to the force. Is that assumption true?
 
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Am I missing something here? Its copied exactly how it is written on paper.
 

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