Griffith's E&M: Why is V_0(y) Missing from Equation 3.28?

In summary, The author does not explain why the value V_0(y) does not appear in equation 3.28, which gives an infinite set of solutions for V(x,y) with the separation ansatz (3.22) and boundary conditions (i) and (ii). The technique used to solve this PDE is separation of variables, which leads to a generalized Fourier-series expansion that is important in theoretical physics. It is recommended to carefully study this example in Griffiths's textbook.
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Does anyone here have a copy of Griffith's E&M?

On page 128, condition III V=V_0 (y) when x = 0.

Do you know why then value V_0(y) does not appear in in equation 3.28, V(x,y) = Ce^(-ky)sin(ky)?

The author does not explain this.
 
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Have you read the solution to the end carefully? (3.28) gives you an infinite set of solutions given the separation ansatz (3.22), working in the boundary conditions (i) and (ii). Now you can get any solution by an infinite series as explained just in the following paragraphs. Then you can use the boundary condition (iii) to define the corresponding coefficients in the general series, which here is a Fourier series in the narrow sense. The general technique of separation of variables to solve PDEs leads to generalized Fourier-series expansions, which is a very important technique in theoretical physics. You should thus carefully study this (in my opinion very nicely explained) example in Griffiths's textbook!
 

FAQ: Griffith's E&M: Why is V_0(y) Missing from Equation 3.28?

1. Why is V0(y) missing from Equation 3.28?

Equation 3.28 in Griffith's E&M is the equation for the electric potential due to a continuous charge distribution. The reason why V0(y) is missing is because it represents the potential at a specific point, y, and it is not necessary for the general equation. It can be easily calculated separately if needed.

2. Will the absence of V0(y) affect the accuracy of the equation?

No, the absence of V0(y) does not affect the accuracy of the equation. The equation is still valid and can be used to calculate the electric potential accurately.

3. Can V0(y) be added to the equation if needed?

Yes, V0(y) can be added to the equation if needed. However, it is not necessary as it can be calculated separately. Adding it to the equation would only make it more complex and may not provide any additional benefit.

4. Is there a specific reason why V0(y) is not included in the equation?

The reason why V0(y) is not included in the equation is to simplify it and make it more general. Including it would make the equation more specific to a certain point, y, and would limit its usability for different scenarios.

5. Are there any other equations in Griffith's E&M where V0(y) is missing?

Yes, there are other equations in Griffith's E&M where V0(y) is missing. This is because it is not always necessary to include it in the equation, as it can be calculated separately or is not relevant to the general equation being used.

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