Electric Field Lines: Special Theory of Relativity Paradox

In summary, the concept of electric field lines was developed to address the issue of spatiotemporal locality, which suggests that electrostatic forces cannot act instantaneously but instead take some time to affect other charges. However, this concept was created in the 19th century, before the development of the Special Theory of Relativity in 1905. This means that electric field lines are not a product of the theory of relativity, as they were developed beforehand to solve the problem of instantaneous action at a distance.
  • #1
lamp post
11
0
the concept of electric field lines are came into existence to satisfy the special theory of relativity which implies that action of electrostatic forces can not be instantaneous but takes some time to act on teh other charge i.e. if a charge produces an electric field then its effect will be observed by another charge some distance away but htis effect would take some time to take place and will not be instantaneous. but the problem is that the STR(special theory of relativity) came into existence in 1905 whereas the concept of electric field lines is of 19 th century! How is it possible?
 
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  • #2
Originally posted by lamp post
the concept of electric field lines are came into existence to satisfy the special theory of relativity ...
Huh? The problem of spatiotemporal locality was recognized long before relativity came around. As you point out, the concept of fields (and field lines) came about to solve the problem of instantaneous action at a distance---but this predates relativity.
 
  • #3
Magnetic field lines are NOT a product of SR. There that should clear up your dilemma! :)
 

1. What is the concept of electric field lines?

The concept of electric field lines is a visual representation of the direction and strength of an electric field. These lines show the path that a positive test charge would take if placed in the electric field.

2. How does special theory of relativity impact electric field lines?

The special theory of relativity states that the laws of physics are the same for all observers in uniform motion. This means that the shape and orientation of electric field lines will remain the same for all observers, regardless of their relative motion.

3. What is the paradox surrounding electric field lines in special theory of relativity?

The paradox arises when considering the concept of simultaneity in special theory of relativity. According to relativity, two events that are simultaneous for one observer may not be simultaneous for another. This raises the question of how the electric field lines, which are created by stationary charges, can remain the same for all observers.

4. How is the paradox of electric field lines in special theory of relativity resolved?

The paradox is resolved by understanding that electric field lines are not physical objects, but rather a mathematical construct used to represent the electric field. Therefore, they are not subject to the laws of relativity and remain the same for all observers.

5. Are there any other implications of special theory of relativity on electric field lines?

Yes, the special theory of relativity also has implications on the speed of propagation of electric field changes. According to relativity, the speed of light is the maximum speed at which information can travel. This means that changes in the electric field will also propagate at the speed of light, regardless of the observer's frame of reference.

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