Confusion over applying the 1st uniqueness theorem to charged regions

In summary, the conversation discusses the application of uniqueness theorems in regions containing charge density. It is noted that the 1st uniqueness theorem may not apply, as the relevant equation is now Poisson's equation. However, the result that there is a specific potential distribution for a given charge distribution and boundary conditions still holds. The main difference between the 1st and 2nd uniqueness theorems is also mentioned. Additionally, it is stated that the Dirichlet boundary value problem for Poisson's equation has a unique solution.
  • #1
phantomvommand
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1. For regions that contain charge density, does the 1st uniqueness theorem still apply?

2. For regions that contain charge density, does the 'no local extrema' implication of Laplace's equation still apply? I think not, since the relevant equation now is Poisson's equation. Furthermore, considering a charged metal sphere and a spherical boundary surface surrounding it, there is a local maxima at the sphere. Nonetheless, the result that "given a specific charge distribution and specific boundary conditions, there is a specific potential distribution" still holds.

3. What is the main difference between the 1st uniqueness theorem and the 2nd uniqueness theorem? Is it that the 1st uniqueness theorem relates to boundary and charge distribution, while the 2nd uniqueness theorem deals with total charge on conductors?

Thanks for all the help
 
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  • #2
I know nothing about charges but try to answer:)
If ##\Delta u\ge 0## in a domain ##D\subset\mathbb{R}^m## then
$$\sup_{x\in D} u(x)=\sup_{x\in\partial D}u(x)$$
And yes, Dirichlet boundary value problem for the Poisson equation has a unique solution
This is informal for details see textbooks in PDE
 
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FAQ: Confusion over applying the 1st uniqueness theorem to charged regions

What is the 1st uniqueness theorem?

The 1st uniqueness theorem is a fundamental principle in electrostatics that states that the electric potential in a given region is uniquely determined by the charge distribution in that region and the boundary conditions.

How does the 1st uniqueness theorem apply to charged regions?

When dealing with charged regions, the 1st uniqueness theorem allows us to determine the electric potential in that region by considering the charge distribution and the boundary conditions, even if the charge distribution is not uniform or symmetric.

What is meant by "confusion" in relation to the 1st uniqueness theorem and charged regions?

Confusion may arise when trying to apply the 1st uniqueness theorem to charged regions because the boundary conditions may not be clearly defined or the charge distribution may be complex, making it difficult to determine the electric potential using the theorem alone.

Can the 1st uniqueness theorem be applied to all charged regions?

Yes, the 1st uniqueness theorem can be applied to all charged regions as long as the charge distribution and boundary conditions are well-defined. However, in some cases, additional techniques may be needed to fully determine the electric potential.

Are there any limitations to the 1st uniqueness theorem when applied to charged regions?

The 1st uniqueness theorem is a powerful tool in electrostatics, but it does have some limitations. It assumes that the region is free of any sources of magnetic fields and that the charge distribution is static. Additionally, the theorem may not be applicable in cases where the electric potential is not well-defined, such as at point charges or at infinity.

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