What is the relationship between electric potential and the electric field?

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SUMMARY

The electric field is fundamentally defined as the gradient of the electric potential. In static conditions, this relationship holds true, with both concepts involving permittivity. However, in the presence of a time-varying magnetic field, the electric field is influenced not only by the electric potential but also by the time-derivative of the magnetic vector potential. This distinction is crucial for understanding electromagnetic theory.

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  • Understanding of electric potential and electric field concepts
  • Familiarity with Maxwell's equations
  • Knowledge of permittivity in electromagnetism
  • Basic grasp of magnetic vector potential
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  • Study the mathematical relationship between electric potential and electric field
  • Explore the implications of time-varying magnetic fields on electric fields
  • Learn about Maxwell's equations and their applications in electromagnetism
  • Investigate the concept of magnetic vector potential and its role in electromagnetic theory
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The electric field is the gradient of the electric potential.
 
Andy Resnick said:
The electric field is the gradient of the electric potential.

However, if there is a time-varying magnetic field present, the electric field is not fully described by the electric potential. In that case, the electric field also has a contribution from the time-derivative of the magnetic vector potential.

Torquil
 

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