Work needed to move conductor in constant electric field

Thread starter Nikitin
Start date Feb 8, 2013
Tags

Conductor Constant Electric Electric field Field Work

Click For Summary

The discussion centers on Walther Lewin's derivation of the formula W = x*(σ/2ε0) in the context of moving a conductor in a constant electric field. Participants express confusion about the reasoning behind taking the average in the calculation. The focus is on understanding the physics principles involved in the derivation. Ultimately, the original question is resolved, indicating that the problem has been clarified. The conversation highlights the importance of grasping the underlying concepts in electrostatics.

Feb 8, 2013

Nikitin

How did Walther Lewin arrive to the result W = x*(σ/2ε₀) in 3:00-4:00? Ie, why did he take the average? I don't get it entirely.

Last edited by a moderator: Sep 25, 2014

Physics news on Phys.org

Feb 9, 2013

Nikitin

never mind this thread, problem is solved.

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...

View full post »