Who contributed to Maxwell's Equations and how?

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SUMMARY

Maxwell's Equations are named after Gauss, Faraday, and Ampere, who contributed through physical observations rather than the mathematical formulation of the equations. Maxwell's significant contribution was synthesizing these observations into a cohesive theory, primarily through the second term in Ampere's law. Initially, Maxwell's Equations consisted of 20 equations, but he streamlined them into four fundamental equations that describe electromagnetism. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding each scientist's role in the development of these equations.

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  • Understanding of electromagnetism principles
  • Familiarity with mathematical formulations in physics
  • Knowledge of historical contributions of Gauss, Faraday, and Ampere
  • Basic comprehension of Maxwell's Equations
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  • Research the historical context of Gauss's law and its implications in electromagnetism
  • Study Faraday's law of induction and its applications in electrical engineering
  • Examine Ampère's circuital law and its role in the formulation of Maxwell's Equations
  • Explore Maxwell's original papers to understand his contributions to the mathematics of electromagnetism
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aqwas
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The four equations carry the names of Gauss, Faraday and Ampere, however, I cannot seem to find any information regarding each's involvement in them. Are those names solely due to physical observations made by the person (in the case of Faraday for example) or have they contributed towards the actual mathematics behind them (which I would assume Gauss has)? Exactly what was Maxwell's contribution? As far as I am aware, the initial form of Maxwell's Equations consisted of 20 equations with Maxwell's main contribution being the second term in Ampere's law. Did he formulate the entire (or majority of) mathematics behind electromagnetism or did he simply link all of the previous equations into a single theory?

(Bear in mind, I am not trying to discredit Maxwell in any way)
 
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