Undergrad What is the significance of dipole moments in physics?

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A dipole moment is a measure of the separation of positive and negative charges in a system, indicating the strength and direction of an electric dipole. It plays a crucial role in understanding molecular interactions and the behavior of materials in electric fields. The relationship between dipole moment, force (F), and torque is significant, as dipole moments can experience torque when placed in an external electric field, affecting their orientation. Research often reveals complexities in calculating dipole moments for various molecular geometries and the influence of surrounding environments. Understanding dipole moments is essential for applications in chemistry, physics, and material science.
athenad07
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What is a dipole mmoment?
Can someone explain what is a dipole moment for me? and what it relationship with F and torque?
 
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What research have you done on this? What have you found out that is confusing?
 

Thread 'What determines if wave components are independent vs coherent?'

I'm working through something and want to make sure I understand the physics. In a system with three wave components at 120° phase separation, the total energy calculation depends on how we treat them: If coherent (add amplitudes first, then square): E = (A₁ + A₂ + A₃)² = 0 If independent (square each, then add): E = A₁² + A₂² + A₃² = 3/2 = constant In three-phase electrical systems, we treat the phases as independent — total power is sum of individual powers. In light interference...
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