Positive source for electromagnetic energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the conservation of electromagnetic energy as expressed by the continuity equation: \(\frac{\partial u}{\partial t} + \vec{\nabla} \cdot \vec{S} = -\vec{J} \cdot \vec{E}\). The term \(-\vec{J} \cdot \vec{E}\) typically indicates energy dissipation, but a scenario is presented where this term can be positive. Specifically, when a fast-moving charged particle is decelerated by an electric field, it loses kinetic energy, which is transferred to the electromagnetic field, resulting in a positive contribution to energy. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between current density \(\vec{J}\) and electric field \(\vec{E}\) in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the continuity equation in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with the concepts of electric field \(\vec{E}\) and magnetic field \(\vec{B}\)
  • Knowledge of current density \(\vec{J}\) and its physical implications
  • Basic principles of energy conservation in electromagnetic systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the continuity equation in electromagnetic theory
  • Study the relationship between kinetic energy and electric potential energy in charged particles
  • Explore the concept of joule heating and its effects on electromagnetic energy
  • Investigate advanced scenarios where \(-\vec{J} \cdot \vec{E}\) can be manipulated for energy transfer
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, electrical engineers, and students studying electromagnetism who seek to deepen their understanding of energy conservation and transfer in electromagnetic fields.

ShayanJ
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We know that the conservation of electromagnetic energy is expressed via the continuity equation below:
[itex] \large{\frac{\partial u}{\partial t}}+\vec{\nabla}\cdot\vec{S}=-\vec{J}\cdot\vec{E}[/itex]
with [itex]u=\frac{1}{2}(\vec{E}\cdot\vec{D}+\vec{B}\cdot\vec{H})[/itex] and [itex]\vec{S}=\vec{E}\times\vec{H}[/itex].
It is obvious that the term [itex]-\vec{J}\cdot\vec{E}[/itex] is a source for electromagnetic energy and we know that its usually negative and electromagnetic energy is dissipated(through joule heating).
My question is,is there a physical situation in which [itex]-\vec{J}\cdot\vec{E}[/itex] becomes positive and,somehow,energy is added to the field?
Thanks
 
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Sure. Consider a fast-moving charged particle being slowed by an electric field. The charged particle loses kinetic energy and the electromagnetic field gains energy. Often we think of the particle as gaining electric potential energy, but really this potential energy is the energy of the electric field.
 
Oohh...of course!
You know...I was just looking for a special combination of current density and electric field and didn't remember this really trivial case!
But...how would you write [itex]\vec{J} \cdot \vec{E}[/itex] for this case?
Thanks
 

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