Simple Maxwell Equation question

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In summary, ρ sub f in the Maxwell equation represents the volume density of macroscopic charge. It is not the same as the magnetic field flux, which is represented by B, and is always 0 due to the absence of magnetic monopoles. The vector D represents the electric displacement and its divergence is equal to the volume charge density.
  • #1
ZedCar
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Homework Statement



In the Maxwell eqn

divD = ρ (sub f)

What does ρ sub f represent?



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Does is represent volume density of charge?
 
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  • #2
No, B is the magnetic field flux so [itex]\rho_f[/itex] is the "volume density of magnetism". Since there are no "magnetic monopoles", that should always be 0.
 
  • #3
Thanks very much HallsofIvy!
 
  • #4
ZedCar said:

Homework Statement



In the Maxwell eqn

divD = ρ (sub f)

What does ρ sub f represent?

Does is represent volume density of charge?

D is the vector of electric displacement and its divergence is equal to the volume charge density. "f" can mean "free", the excess macroscopic charge density.
http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics/D.html

ehild
 
  • #5
HallsofIvy said:
No, B is the magnetic field flux so [itex]\rho_f[/itex] is the "volume density of magnetism". Since there are no "magnetic monopoles", that should always be 0.

HallsofIvy, the question was "D" not "B".

ehild
 

FAQ: Simple Maxwell Equation question

What is the Simple Maxwell Equation?

The Simple Maxwell Equation is a set of four equations that describe the fundamental principles of electromagnetism. They were first developed by physicist James Clerk Maxwell in the 19th century and have since been fundamental in our understanding of electricity and magnetism.

2. What are the four equations in the Simple Maxwell Equation?

The four equations in the Simple Maxwell Equation are Gauss's Law, which relates electric fields to the distribution of electric charges; Gauss's Law for Magnetism, which relates magnetic fields to the distribution of magnetic charges; Faraday's Law, which describes how a changing magnetic field creates an electric field; and Ampere's Law, which relates magnetic fields to electric currents.

3. How are the Simple Maxwell Equation equations used in everyday life?

The Simple Maxwell Equation equations are used in a wide range of everyday applications, such as the functioning of electronic devices, the production and transmission of electricity, and the generation of radio waves for communication.

4. What is the significance of the Simple Maxwell Equation in physics?

The Simple Maxwell Equation is significant because it provides a unified framework for understanding the relationship between electricity and magnetism. It also paved the way for the development of other important theories, such as the theory of relativity.

5. Are there any limitations to the Simple Maxwell Equation?

While the Simple Maxwell Equation is a powerful tool for understanding electromagnetism, it does have limitations. For example, it does not account for quantum effects and does not fully explain the behavior of electromagnetic waves at very small scales. These limitations have led to the development of more advanced theories, such as quantum electrodynamics.

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