Tag: Electric Field
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Van de Graaff Generator
Introduction The Van de Graaff generator is a device designed to produce high voltages. Invented by American physicist Robert J. Van de Graaff in the 1930s, it has been used for many purposes, including as a particle accelerator in nuclear physics research. Basic Working Principle The fundamental principle behind the Van de Graaff generator is…
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Poynting Vector
Introduction The Poynting vector is a fundamental concept in electromagnetism representing the directional energy flux density (the rate of energy transfer per unit area, in Watts per square meter) of an electromagnetic field. It is named after its inventor, the physicist John Henry Poynting. Definition the Poynting Vector The Poynting vector is defined as the…
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Chapter 18: The Magnetic Field of a Moving Charge
18.1 Introduction In this chapter, we will discuss the magnetic field produced by moving charges, such as electrons and ions, and how it affects the motion of other charged particles. Understanding the magnetic field of a moving charge is essential for various applications, including the design of particle accelerators and the analysis of plasma behavior…
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Permittivity of Free Space
Introduction The permittivity of free space, commonly denoted as , is a fundamental physical constant that measures the ability of a vacuum to permit electric field lines. It is a crucial parameter in the study of electromagnetism. Definition and Value The permittivity of free space is defined as the ratio of the electric flux density…
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Babinet’s Principle
Introduction Babinet’s Principle, named after French physicist Jacques Babinet, is a theorem concerning diffraction in the field of optics. The principle states that the diffraction pattern from an opaque body is identical to the pattern from a hole of the same size and shape except for the overall forward beam intensity. Statement of Babinet’s Principle…
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Chapter 4: Gauss’ Law
4.1 Introduction to Gauss’ Law Gauss’ Law is a fundamental principle in electromagnetism that relates the net electric flux through a closed surface to the total charge enclosed by that surface. This law helps simplify the calculation of electric fields in situations with symmetry and is crucial in understanding the behavior of electric fields around…
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Chapter 3: Electric Flux
3.1 Introduction to Electric Flux Electric flux is a measure of the electric field passing through a given surface. It helps us understand how the electric field interacts with objects and how charges distribute themselves on the surfaces of objects. In this chapter, we will discuss the concept of electric flux in more detail and…
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Chapter 2: Electric Fields
2.1 Introduction to Electric Fields Electric fields are all around us. An electric field is a region surrounding a charged object where another charged object experiences a force due to electrostatic attraction or repulsion. The electric field () is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. The electric field is defined as…
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Coulomb’s Law
Coulomb’s Law is vitally important in the field of electrostatics as it describes the force between two charged particles. This principle is named after the French physicist Charles-Augustin de Coulomb, who formulated the law in the late 18th century. Basic Understanding of Coulomb’s Law Coulomb’s Law states that the electrostatic force between two charged particles…