Abstract
This paper revisits the topic of electrostatic field energy due to a pair of the electric charges. Not only point-like charges but also charged spheres of radius R are studied. The self-energies as well as the interaction field energy are discussed in full detail. By combining two alternative didactic paths (one mathematical and the other based on energy conservation principles), it is shown that the interaction field energy (which is a volume integral of the energy density over the infinite space) is always equal to the potential energy, regardless of the nature of the electrical charges. For these two characteristic cases of electric charges (i.e., point-like and uniformly charged spheres), the location and the amount of the major part of the interaction field energy is discussed; the relevant factoids are documented in the form of two compact theorems in the Appendix. The case of non-uniformly charged spheres (i.e., spherical conductors) is also discussed to some extent. In addition to this general presentation, the particular case of the electric dipole is discussed, as a special case, accompanied with many numerical results.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: WSEAS TRANSACTIONS ON ADVANCES in ENGINEERING EDUCATION
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
