Uniform polarization and linear dielectrics

In summary, a sphere with frozen-in uniform polarization ## \vec P ## cannot be considered a linear dielectric according to the definition given in Griffiths. This is because the electric field inside the sphere, ## \vec E = \frac {-P}{3 \epsilon_0} ##, does not follow the relationship ## \vec P = \epsilon_0 \chi_e \vec E ## as ## \epsilon_0 \chi_e ## cannot be negative. Additionally, outside the sphere, the polarization is zero but the electric field is nonzero, making ## \epsilon_0 \chi_e ## cannot be zero. Therefore, according to equation 4.30, a sphere with uniform polarization is not a linear dielectric. Furthermore,
  • #1
Pushoam
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Can a sphere with a frozen - in uniform polarization ## \vec P ## be considered a linear dielectrics?

Following the definition of dielectrics given in Griffiths:
upload_2017-8-12_19-59-16.png
The electric field inside the sphere,
## \vec E = \frac {-P}{3 \epsilon_0} ##
So, ## \vec P ≠ ε_0 χ_e \vec E ## as ## ε_0 χ_e## can't be negative?

On the other hand, outside the dielectrics, ## \vec P is 0## , but ## \vec E is non-zero ## and ## ε_0 χ_e## can't be 0.
Hence, acc. to eq. 4.30,
A sphere with uniform polarization is not linear dielectrics.
Is this correct?
 
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  • #2
There are cases of spontaneous polarization ## \vec{P} ## in the absence of an electric field. I believe these materials are known as ferroelectrics. In general, you can not assign a dielectric constant to this spontaneous polarization. I believe what you have concluded is also correct=when in the shape of a sphere, the material inside will still retain the spontaneous polarization, and will not be appreciably affected by the electric field due to the surface polarization charge that has an electric field opposite the polarization of ## \vec{E}_p=-\vec{P}/(3 \epsilon_o ) ##.
 
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1. What is uniform polarization in linear dielectrics?

Uniform polarization is a phenomenon where the electric dipole moments of atoms or molecules within a dielectric material align in the same direction under the influence of an external electric field, resulting in a net polarization of the material.

2. How does uniform polarization affect the dielectric constant of a material?

Uniform polarization increases the dielectric constant of a material, as it creates an additional electric field within the material that interacts with the external field. This results in a stronger overall response to the external field, leading to a higher dielectric constant.

3. Can uniform polarization occur in all types of dielectric materials?

No, uniform polarization can only occur in linear dielectrics where the relationship between the polarization and the applied electric field is a linear one. In other types of dielectrics, such as non-linear or anisotropic materials, the polarization may not be directly proportional to the electric field.

4. How does temperature affect uniform polarization in linear dielectrics?

Temperature can affect uniform polarization in linear dielectrics by either increasing or decreasing the strength of the polarization. In some materials, an increase in temperature can cause the alignment of dipoles to become less uniform, leading to a decrease in polarization. In other materials, an increase in temperature can cause the dipoles to rotate more freely, resulting in a stronger polarization.

5. What is the practical application of uniform polarization in linear dielectrics?

Uniform polarization in linear dielectrics is used in a variety of practical applications, such as in capacitors, insulators, and dielectric mirrors. It also plays a crucial role in the functioning of electronic devices, as it allows for the manipulation and control of electric fields within the material.

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