Permeability and Permittivity of Free space versus particules

In summary, we know the values of €0 and µ0 for free space, as well as €r and µr for material. However, these values cannot be calculated for stand-alone particles like electrons, protons, or neutrons because they are not continuous media. Some people have attempted to assign higher permittivity to spheres as a model, but the properties of individual particles are still unknown. It may be possible to derive a radial dependency for an electromagnetic wave to orbit a sphere with increased space density.
  • #1
owlal85
5
0
We know for sure €0 and µ0 for free space.
We know as well €r and µr for material
Have theses values been calculated for stand alone particles like an electron, a proton or a neutron?
Have somebody then connected theses values to an atom (of hydrogen for example) which is a combination of moving particules an free space ?

Can anybody help?
 
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  • #2
Permittivity and permeability are properties of continuous media. A single atom is not a continuous medium. What you want doesn't exist.
 
  • #3
No one knows what an electron is, let alone any material properties. I've seen people try to assign a higher permittivity to a sphere as a model. If I were to try such a model, I'd increase both permittivity and permeability proportionately so that Z is constant and c decreases. You could then view particles as local increases in space "density". In fact, it would be interesting to derive the radial dependency required to make an em wave "orbit" such a sphere.
 

1. What is the difference between permeability and permittivity?

Permeability and permittivity are two fundamental properties of materials that describe their ability to interact with electric and magnetic fields, respectively. Permeability is a measure of how easily a material can be magnetized, while permittivity is a measure of how easily a material can be polarized by an electric field.

2. How do the permeability and permittivity of free space compare to those of particles?

The permeability and permittivity of free space, also known as the vacuum permeability and permittivity, are both constant values that are used as reference points for other materials. In contrast, the values for particles can vary depending on the type of material and its physical properties.

3. What is the unit of measurement for permeability and permittivity?

The unit of measurement for permeability is henries per meter (H/m), while the unit for permittivity is farads per meter (F/m). These units represent the strength of the magnetic and electric fields, respectively, in relation to the material.

4. How do permeability and permittivity affect the behavior of electromagnetic waves?

Permeability and permittivity play crucial roles in the propagation of electromagnetic waves. These properties determine the speed of light in a given medium and also affect how the waves interact with the material. For example, materials with high permittivity tend to reflect more light, while materials with high permeability tend to absorb more light.

5. Can the permeability and permittivity of a material change?

Yes, the permeability and permittivity of a material can change depending on various factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of electric and magnetic fields. This phenomenon is known as the material's susceptibility and can be quantified by the relative permeability and permittivity values.

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