Interaction Energy: What is W=\int dV $\rho(\vec{r}) \phi_{ext}(\vec{r})$?

In summary, interaction energy is the potential energy associated with the interaction between two or more objects or systems. It can be represented by the equation W=\int dV $\rho(\vec{r}) \phi_{ext}(\vec{r})$, where the integral is taken over the volume of the system. This type of energy is related to potential energy and is affected by factors such as distance, strength of interaction, and properties of objects. It is used in scientific research to understand the behavior of particles and systems and predict the properties and interactions of materials.
  • #1
latentcorpse
1,444
0
Hi. in my notes the interaction energy is simply stated as being

[itex]W=\int dV \rho(\vec{r}) \phi_{ext}(\vec{r})[/itex]
however no explanation is given as to where this comes from.
is it simply a fact or should i be able toderive this from somewhere?
 
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  • #2
I think this essentially assumes you initially have an external potential phi, then this is the energy required to move the given charge distribution ito that potential from infinity
 

FAQ: Interaction Energy: What is W=\int dV $\rho(\vec{r}) \phi_{ext}(\vec{r})$?

What is interaction energy?

Interaction energy is the potential energy associated with the interaction between two or more objects or systems. It is a measure of the work required to bring the objects together or move them apart.

What does the equation W=\int dV $\rho(\vec{r}) \phi_{ext}(\vec{r})$ represent?

This equation represents the interaction energy between a system of charges or particles, represented by the charge density $\rho(\vec{r})$, and an external potential $\phi_{ext}(\vec{r})$. The integral is taken over the volume of the system.

How is interaction energy related to potential energy?

Interaction energy is a type of potential energy. It is a measure of the potential energy associated with the interaction between two or more objects or systems. Potential energy is a more general term that can also include other forms of energy, such as gravitational or elastic potential energy.

What factors affect the magnitude of interaction energy?

The magnitude of interaction energy is affected by several factors, including the distance between the interacting objects, the strength of the interaction force, and the properties of the objects themselves, such as charge or mass.

How is interaction energy used in scientific research?

Interaction energy is an important concept in many areas of scientific research, including physics, chemistry, and biology. It is used to understand the behavior of particles and systems at the atomic and molecular level, and to predict the properties and interactions of materials and substances.

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