Deriving Maxwell's Eqs from Conservation Laws: E&M Fields

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In summary, Maxwell's Equations are a set of four fundamental equations that describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields. They were developed by James Clerk Maxwell in the 19th century and have had a profound impact on our understanding of electricity and magnetism. These equations can be derived from two fundamental conservation laws and are used in various fields of physics and engineering. While they accurately describe most situations, they have limitations and do not fully account for the behavior of particles at the atomic or quantum level. They are widely used in practical applications such as electronic circuit design, antenna and device design, atmospheric and oceanic modeling, and medical imaging technologies.
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Homework Statement


Can you derive Maxwell's equations from conservation of charge, energy and angular momentum for E&M fields?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Once you are able to define these quantities, including EM fields themselves, I'm sure you can. But without Maxwell's equations, how do you even define a charge?
 
  • #3
One could argue that the field theory approach, deriving Maxwell's equations from the Lagrangian with 4-vector potentials, is what you've asked about.
 

FAQ: Deriving Maxwell's Eqs from Conservation Laws: E&M Fields

What are Maxwell's Equations?

Maxwell's Equations are a set of four fundamental equations that describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields. They were first developed by James Clerk Maxwell in the 19th century and are a cornerstone of classical electromagnetism.

How are Maxwell's Equations derived from conservation laws?

Maxwell's Equations can be derived from two fundamental conservation laws: the conservation of charge and the conservation of energy. By applying these laws to the behavior of electric and magnetic fields, Maxwell was able to develop his famous equations.

What is the significance of Maxwell's Equations?

Maxwell's Equations have had a profound impact on our understanding of electricity and magnetism. They have been instrumental in the development of technologies such as radio, television, and cell phones, and continue to be used in various fields of physics and engineering.

Can Maxwell's Equations be applied to all situations?

While Maxwell's Equations accurately describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields in most situations, they do have limitations. They are based on classical electromagnetism and do not fully account for the behavior of particles at the atomic or quantum level.

How are Maxwell's Equations used in practical applications?

Maxwell's Equations are used in a wide range of practical applications, including the design and analysis of electronic circuits, antennas, and electromagnetic devices. They are also used in the study and modeling of atmospheric and oceanic phenomena, as well as in medical imaging technologies.

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