Energy Stored in Charged Capacitor: Kaluza-Klein Theory

In summary, Kaluza-Klein theory includes standard electrodynamics and explains the stored energy in a capacitor in the same way. Charge can be thought of as momentum in the 5th dimension, but it is unclear how this interpretation can be applied to the energy stored in the field. In standard GR, there is no way to define a localized energy in the gravitational field, and in Kaluza-Klein theory, the electromagnetic energy would be a form of energy stored in the gravitational field.
  • #1
Spinnor
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In terms of Kaluza-Klein theory how does one view the stored electromagnetic energy between the plates of a charged capacitor.

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
I'm not sure what you're asking. Kaluza-Klein theory is equivalent to the Einstein Field Equation + Maxwell's Equations. So it includes standard electrodynamics, which can explain the stored energy in a capacitor, and Kaluza-Klein theory would just use that same explanation.
 
  • #3
In Kaluza_Klein charge can be thought of as momentum in the 5th dimension?

I guess I was looking for some kind of geometrical interpretation of electrostatic energy.
 
  • #4
Spinnor said:
In Kaluza_Klein charge can be thought of as momentum in the 5th dimension?

Sort of, yes; charge relates to how fast a particle is going around the small circle that is the 5th dimension. But I don't know how (or if) that interpretation can be extended to cover the energy stored in the field. In standard (4-dimensional) GR there is no way to define a localized "energy in the gravitational field" as a geometric object, and in Kaluza-Klein theory what we call "electromagnetic" energy would be a form of "energy stored in the gravitational field" (interpreting "gravitational field" as the underlying 5-dimensional geometry).
 

Related to Energy Stored in Charged Capacitor: Kaluza-Klein Theory

What is the concept of energy stored in a charged capacitor?

The concept of energy stored in a charged capacitor involves the storage of electrical energy in an electric field created between two conductive plates that are separated by an insulating material. This energy is stored in the form of potential energy and is released when the capacitor is discharged.

How does the Kaluza-Klein theory relate to the energy stored in a charged capacitor?

The Kaluza-Klein theory is a unification theory that combines gravity and electromagnetism. It suggests that there are additional dimensions beyond the three spatial dimensions we are familiar with, and these dimensions play a role in the behavior of electric and magnetic fields. In the context of energy stored in a charged capacitor, the theory helps explain the relationship between the electric field, the charge on the capacitor, and the energy stored.

What factors affect the amount of energy stored in a charged capacitor?

The amount of energy stored in a charged capacitor is affected by several factors, including the capacitance of the capacitor, the voltage across the plates, and the distance between the plates. The greater the capacitance and voltage, and the closer the plates are, the more energy will be stored in the capacitor.

Can the energy stored in a charged capacitor be converted to other forms of energy?

Yes, the energy stored in a charged capacitor can be converted to other forms of energy. When the capacitor is discharged, the stored energy is released in the form of an electric current, which can be used to power devices. This process is commonly used in electronics such as cameras, flashlights, and computers.

How does the energy stored in a charged capacitor contribute to the overall energy of a system?

The energy stored in a charged capacitor is a form of potential energy, which contributes to the overall energy of a system. This energy can be converted to other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy, and play a role in the overall functioning of a system. In the context of the Kaluza-Klein theory, the energy stored in a charged capacitor is also affected by the additional dimensions, which further contribute to the overall energy of the system.

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