Point charges in non-inertial reference frames

In summary, two particles with the same charge will always repel each other in inertial reference frames, even if they are moving in parallel at high speeds. This is due to special relativity balancing the forces from the electric and magnetic fields. However, in the scenario of two particles of the same charge moving in circular motion, it is not possible for there to be a net attraction from the induced magnetic fields. This is because the mathematics requires the velocity to be greater than the speed of light, which is impossible. Therefore, it is generally not possible for two particles of the same charge to have a net attraction.
  • #1
Ertosthnes
49
0
Okay, in inertial reference frames, two particles with the same charge will always repel each other. Even if they were moving in parallel at high speeds, and thus producing magnetic fields, special relativity would come in and balance the forces from the electric and magnetic fields so that there would be a net repulsion.

But suppose that two particles of the same charge were moving parallel to each other in a circular motion. Is it possible there could be a net attraction from the induced magnetic fields? More generally, is it true in general that it is always impossible for two particles of the same charge to have a net attraction?
 
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  • #2
No. The mathematics is such that v would have to be greater than c for that to happen which is obviously not possible.
 
  • #3
McLaren Rulez said:
No. The mathematics is such that v would have to be greater than c for that to happen which is obviously not possible.

Can you elaborate?
 

FAQ: Point charges in non-inertial reference frames

What is a point charge in a non-inertial reference frame?

A point charge is a hypothetical concept used in physics to represent a particle with a known and fixed electric charge. In a non-inertial reference frame, the point charge may experience fictitious forces due to the acceleration of the reference frame.

How does the electric field of a point charge change in a non-inertial reference frame?

The electric field of a point charge remains unchanged in a non-inertial reference frame. This is because the electric field is a fundamental property of the point charge and is not affected by the reference frame.

What are fictitious forces and how do they affect point charges in non-inertial reference frames?

Fictitious forces are apparent forces that arise in non-inertial reference frames due to the acceleration of the frame. These forces do not have a physical origin and do not affect the motion of the point charge, but they may change the observations of an outside observer.

Can the motion of a point charge in a non-inertial reference frame be predicted accurately?

Yes, the motion of a point charge in a non-inertial reference frame can be accurately predicted using the laws of physics and taking into account the fictitious forces that may be present. However, the observations of an outside observer may differ from those of an observer in the non-inertial reference frame.

How does the electric potential of a point charge change in a non-inertial reference frame?

The electric potential of a point charge remains the same in a non-inertial reference frame. This is because the electric potential is also a fundamental property of the point charge and is not affected by the reference frame.

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