Vector potential A_mu from scalar function theta(x_mu)?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between a scalar function θ(x,y,z,t) and the electromagnetic vector potential A_μ(x,y,z,t). It is established that while a vector function can be derived from a scalar function through mathematical operations such as taking the gradient, the specific scenario presented indicates that the electromagnetic field tensor F_{\mu\nu} equals zero. This suggests that the scalar function θ cannot yield a non-zero vector potential A_μ under the given conditions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of scalar and vector fields in electromagnetism
  • Familiarity with the electromagnetic field tensor F_{\mu\nu}
  • Knowledge of mathematical operations such as gradients
  • Basic concepts of charge density and its effects in electromagnetic theory
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The discussion is beneficial for physicists, particularly those specializing in electromagnetism and theoretical physics, as well as students seeking to understand the relationship between scalar and vector potentials in electromagnetic fields.

Spinnor
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Suppose we have a scalar function θ(x,y,z,t) of space and time where theta is some angle (0≤θ≤2π) that represents the compact coordinate of a 3 dimensional space (x,y,z) filling membrane at the space time point (x,y,z,t) in a compact space dimension w. Suppose that charge density "pushes" on the membrane in the compact dimension w with a force that is proportional to the magnitude of the charge density. The force only has a component in the w direction, the direction of the force in w is given by the sign of the charge density. This function can be graphed as a single clock hand at each point of spacetime (x,y,z,t). Define a positive charge such that if we move away from the charge θ increases, it would be opposite for a negative point charge. Hope I have been clear enough.

Can a function θ(x,y,z,t) yield the electromagnetic vector potential A_μ(x,y,z,t) by suitable mathematical operations on θ? I think not but I am stuck trying to show this can or cannot work.

Thanks for any help!
 
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Spinnor said:
Can a function θ(x,y,z,t) yield the electromagnetic vector potential A_μ(x,y,z,t) by suitable mathematical operations on θ?
You can get a vector function from a scalar function by taking a gradient...
 
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mitchell porter said:
You can get a vector function from a scalar function by taking a gradient...
But in this case we would have ##F_{\mu\nu}=0##.
 
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