Mean value theorem in elelctrostatics

In summary, the mean value theorem in electrostatics states that the electrostatic potential at any point is equal to the average potential over the surface of any sphere centered at that point. However, the derivation of this theorem may not be satisfactory as it shows that the potential at a given point is independent of the type of surface and does not necessarily have to be at the center of the sphere. It is suggested to use Green's function and Neumann boundary conditions for a more accurate result.
  • #1
hyperspace
3
0
The mean value theorem in electrostatics states that for charge free space the value of the electrostatic potential at any point is equal to the average of the potential over the surface of any sphere centered at that point.
In its derivation I'm getting a kind of strange result that is not satisfactory. What I am getting is that the potential at required point is independent of the type of surface taken (spherical or not) and that it may not be the center as well.
It would be better if you use Green's function to do this.

TIA
 
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  • #2
So what are you asking exactly? (Also if you want help with your derivation, it'd be nice to see it ;-)
 
  • #3
Ok, so the result I'm getting is V(x)=<V>s, where s represents the surface, of any kind actually. So there's no reference to spherical shape also it doesn't follow that x has to be the center of the sphere if s is at all a sphere. I got this using the Green's function and Neumann boundary conditions
 
  • #4
hyperspace said:
Ok, so the result I'm getting is V(x)=<V>s, where s represents the surface, of any kind actually. So there's no reference to spherical shape also it doesn't follow that x has to be the center of the sphere if s is at all a sphere. I got this using the Green's function and Neumann boundary conditions

That result doesn't look right...if you post your calculations for it, we can tell you wjere you are going wrong.
 

FAQ: Mean value theorem in elelctrostatics

1. What is the Mean Value Theorem in electrostatics?

The Mean Value Theorem in electrostatics is a mathematical principle that states that at some point within a given interval, the average value of a function is equal to its instantaneous value at that point. In electrostatics, this principle is used to determine the average electric field within a given region.

2. How is the Mean Value Theorem applied in electrostatics?

The Mean Value Theorem is applied in electrostatics by using the integral form of Gauss's law, which states that the flux of the electric field through a closed surface is equal to the charge enclosed by that surface. By applying the Mean Value Theorem to this integral, the average electric field within the region can be determined.

3. What are the assumptions made when using the Mean Value Theorem in electrostatics?

The Mean Value Theorem in electrostatics assumes that the electric field is continuous and differentiable throughout the region of interest. It also assumes that the electric field is a conservative vector field, meaning that the work done in moving a charge from one point to another is independent of the path taken.

4. Can the Mean Value Theorem be used for non-conservative electric fields?

No, the Mean Value Theorem is not applicable for non-conservative electric fields. This is because the theorem relies on the assumption that the electric field is conservative, and if this assumption is not true, then the average electric field calculated using the Mean Value Theorem will not accurately represent the true value.

5. Are there any limitations to using the Mean Value Theorem in electrostatics?

One limitation of using the Mean Value Theorem in electrostatics is that it can only be applied to regions where the electric field is known or can be easily calculated. It also assumes that the electric field is constant within the region of interest, which may not always be the case in practical situations. Additionally, the Mean Value Theorem is only valid for one-dimensional or spherically symmetric electric fields.

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