Varying current inducing E-field: example 7.9 in Griffiths

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem from Griffiths related to the electric field induced by a varying current. Participants are examining the justification for certain assumptions and mathematical expressions regarding the electric field in relation to an amperian loop.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the reasoning behind Griffiths' assertion that the electric field is parallel to the axis of the wire. They are also exploring the implications of the integral expression for the electric field and its components, particularly the significance of the negative sign and the length used in the equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the mathematical framework and physical principles involved, such as Lenz's law and symmetry considerations. There is a recognition of differing interpretations regarding the path integral and its components, indicating a productive exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can share or the conclusions they can draw. There is an emphasis on understanding the justification for specific expressions and assumptions in the context of the problem.

Nikitin
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Homework Statement


Look at the attached file.

1) Why does Griffith simply say that the E-field of the amperian loop is parallel to the axis of the wire?

2) And how come ##\int \vec{E} \cdot d \vec{l} = -E(s) l ## ? Shouldn't it at least be ## E(s) 2l## ? Why the minus sign and ##l## instead of ##2l## ?
 

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Homework forum has a template. It's compulsory.
1) Lenz's law. Nature wants to counteract.
Or Maxwell: if B is perp to the paper (call that the z direction, x to the right along the axis) ##(\nabla \times \vec E)_z = {\partial E_y\over \partial x} - {\partial E_x\over \partial y} = -({\partial \vec B\over \partial t})_z##
Now Ey can't depend on x (symmetry), so E = Ex only.
2) dl points in a different direction for the two s. In your unsharp picture I think I distinguish a little arrow on the lower dashed line ?
 
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I used the template as far as possible,, all I need to know is how griffiths justified that E-field stuff.

1) Fair enough.

2) Yes, you are right about the arrow. And sorry about the resolution (can you read everything?). dl points to the right there, so the path integral is taken counter-clockwise. But how does this make the E-field integral equal to - E(s)*l ?
 
Last edited:
On the path integral ##\int_{path} \vec E dl = \int _{s_0}^s \vec E(s') ds' +\int _{l}^0 \vec E(s) dl'+\int _s^{s_0} \vec E(s') ds' +\int _{0}^l \vec E(s_0) dl'##
The pieces ##\int _{l}^0 \vec E(s) dl'+\int _{0}^l \vec E(s_0) dl'=\vec E(s_0)l-\vec E(s)l##,
The pieces ##\int _{s_0}^s \vec E(s') ds'+\int _s^{s_0} \vec E(s') ds'=0## since the field in invariant in x.
 
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ahh, right. now I see my mistakes! thank you :)

And thanks to BvU too!
 

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