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Shreyas Shree
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Why does the method of images work?
The method of images is used in electrostatics and magnetostatics because it provides a simple and efficient way to solve boundary value problems. It allows us to replace a complex boundary condition with a simpler one, making the calculation of electric or magnetic fields much easier.
The method of images uses the concept of mirror charges to eliminate the need for calculating the electric field at the boundary. By placing a "mirror" charge at a specific location, the electric field at the boundary can be made to satisfy the given boundary condition, simplifying the calculation.
No, the method of images can only be used for certain types of boundary conditions. It is most commonly used for problems involving conductors or perfect electric/magnetic insulators, where the electric/magnetic field is perpendicular to the boundary.
The method of images can only be used for static problems, where the charges or currents are not changing over time. It also cannot be used for problems with non-perpendicular electric/magnetic fields at the boundary, or for problems involving moving charges or currents.
No, the method of images has a physical interpretation as well. It can be thought of as a way to represent the effect of a charge or current distribution on the electric or magnetic field, by using the concept of "image charges" or "image currents". This makes it a useful tool for understanding and visualizing the behavior of electric and magnetic fields.