Potentials of a charge moving with uniform velocity

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of scalar potential \(\Phi\) and vector potential \(\vec{A}\) for a point charge \(q\) moving with uniform velocity \(\vec{v} = v \hat{z}\) in two reference frames: the laboratory frame \(\mathcal{K}\) and the rest frame \(\mathcal{K'}\). Two methods were employed to derive the potentials: transforming the 4-vector potential \(A'^{\mu}\) and using Lienard-Wiechert potentials. Both methods yielded results that satisfied the Lorentz gauge condition \(\partial^\mu A_\mu = 0\), leading to the conclusion that the results are consistent under uniform motion. The discussion raises questions about the necessity of uniform motion for the equivalence of the two methods.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 4-vector potential in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with Lorentz gauge condition
  • Knowledge of Lienard-Wiechert potentials
  • Basic concepts of special relativity and reference frames
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  • Study the derivation of Lienard-Wiechert potentials in detail
  • Explore the implications of the Lorentz gauge in electromagnetic theory
  • Investigate the conditions under which the equivalence of different potential calculation methods holds
  • Learn about the effects of non-uniform motion on electromagnetic potentials
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This discussion is beneficial for physicists, particularly those specializing in electromagnetism and special relativity, as well as students tackling advanced topics in theoretical physics.

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Homework Statement


A point charge q, moving with uniform velocity [itex]\vec{v}[/itex] = v [itex]\hat{z}[/itex], in the laboratory frame called [itex]\cal{K}[/itex]. The charge is in the origin of the system at time [itex]t=0[/itex].


Homework Equations


Find scalar potential [itex]\Phi[/itex] and vector potential [itex]\vec{A}[/itex] both in the frame in which the charge is at rest [itex]\cal{K'}[/itex] and the laboratory frame [itex]\cal{K}[/itex]. Verify the potentials to satisfy Lorentz gauge.


The Attempt at a Solution


I thought of two methods of proceeding:
  1. Transforming 4-vector-Potential [itex]A'^{\mu}[/itex]: I calculate the easy 4-potential in [itex]\cal{K'}[/itex] and I transformed it back into [itex]\cal{K}[/itex], transforming also the spacetime variables. The 4-vector-Potential [itex]A^{\mu}[/itex] that I found, satisfies Lorentz gauge [itex]\partial^\mu A_\mu = 0[/itex].
  2. Using Lienard Wiechert Potentials: I calculate the 4-potential in [itex]\cal{K'}[/itex] using the same method discussed above. In [itex]\cal{K}[/itex] I calculated the retarded Lienard Wiechert potentials, calculating the retarded time too that is needed to be substituted into the formula. This 4-potential satisfies Lorentz gauge too.

My question is: these two methods are pretty different as the first does not take into account any "retard" whereas the second is based on the assumption of "retard". Which is correct and why?

Thank you very much.
 
Last edited:
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I just managed with more algebra to find that the two results were the same. now my question is: is that always true? is it necessary a uniform motion or whatelse?

Thanks.
 

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