Presenting electromagnetic theory in accordance with the principle of causality
Abstract
A method of presenting electromagnetic theory in accordance with the principle of causality is described. Two 'causal' equations expressing time-dependent electric and magnetic fields in terms of their causative sources by means of retarded integrals are used as the fundamental electromagnetic equations. Maxwell's equations are derived from these 'causal' equations. Except for the fact that Maxwell's equations appear as derived equations, the presentation is completely compatible with Maxwell's electromagnetic theory. An important consequence of this method of presentation is that it offers new insights into the cause-and-effect relations in electromagnetic phenomena and results in simpler derivations of certain electromagnetic equations.
- Publication:
-
European Journal of Physics
- Pub Date:
- March 2004
- DOI:
- 10.1088/0143-0807/25/2/015
- Bibcode:
- 2004EJPh...25..287J