Fourier transform of vector potential

In summary, the conversation is about a question on an indefinite integral involving the Laplacian operator and an exponential function. The integral is part of a derivation for calculating the Rutherford scattering cross section from "Quarks and Leptons" by Halzen and Martin. The book provides a result obtained through partial integration of the original integral. The person asking the question has attempted to use a vector calculus identity, but the other person suggests using partial integration as mentioned by the authors and starting with one dimension. It is also important to remember that the fields go to zero at infinity for the boundary terms to vanish.
  • #1
Amith2006
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Homework Statement


I have question on doing the following indefinite integral:
$$\int{d^3x(\nabla^2A^{\mu}(x))e^{iq.x}}$$

Homework Equations


This is part of derivation for calculating the Rutherford scattering cross section from Quarks and Leptons by Halzen and Martin. This books gives the following result obtained by partial integration of the above integral:
$$\int{d^3xA^{\mu}(x)(\nabla^2e^{iq.x})}$$

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to use the identity from vector calculus:
$$\nabla^2(\phi\psi) = \phi\nabla^2\psi + \psi\nabla^2\phi + 2\nabla\phi.\nabla\psi$$
But not sure how to get rid of the other terms.
Any help is most welcome.
 
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  • #2
No, you need to use partial integration as mentioned by the authors and not vector identities. I suggest you start in one dimension and then see how it generalises. Also remember that the fields are assumed to go to zero at infinity such that the boundary terms from the partial integration vanishes.
 
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Related to Fourier transform of vector potential

1. What is a Fourier transform of vector potential?

A Fourier transform of vector potential is a mathematical operation that decomposes a vector potential function into its frequency components. It is a tool commonly used in physics and engineering to analyze signals or functions in the frequency domain.

2. How is a Fourier transform of vector potential calculated?

The Fourier transform of vector potential is calculated by applying the Fourier transform operation to the components of the vector potential function, which are typically expressed in terms of sine and cosine functions. This results in a representation of the vector potential in the frequency domain.

3. What is the importance of Fourier transform of vector potential in physics?

The Fourier transform of vector potential is important in physics because it allows for the analysis of electromagnetic fields and their behavior in different frequency ranges. It is also used in the study of quantum mechanics and wave mechanics, as well as in many other areas of physics.

4. How is the Fourier transform of vector potential related to the Maxwell's equations?

The Fourier transform of vector potential is related to the Maxwell's equations through the use of the vector Helmholtz equation, which relates the vector potential to the electric and magnetic fields. It allows for the transformation of the Maxwell's equations from the time domain to the frequency domain, making it easier to analyze and solve problems involving electromagnetic fields.

5. Are there any limitations to using the Fourier transform of vector potential?

While the Fourier transform of vector potential is a powerful tool, it does have some limitations. It can only be applied to functions that are square integrable, meaning they have finite energy. Additionally, it assumes that the vector potential is continuous and differentiable, which may not always be the case in physical systems.

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