Scalar made from electromagnetic four potential

In summary, a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential is a mathematical quantity derived from the four potential that describes the electromagnetic field in space-time. It is calculated by taking the dot product of the four potential and the four gradient of the potential, and is significant in various theories and equations in physics. However, it cannot be directly observed or measured and is unique in its relationship to other scalar quantities in physics.
  • #1
sweet springs
1,223
75
Hi.

What physical meaning does scalar made from inner product of electromagnetic four potential, gαβAαAβ, have?

Regards.
 
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  • #2
It is kind of a mass term for the electromagnetic field, which appears e.g. in superconductors where it produces the Meissner Ochsenfeld effect.
However, it is gauge dependent.
 
  • #3
Hi, thank you DrDu.
Is it is related to canonical momentum replacement p → (p − eA) in Hamiltonian for charged particles ?
Regards. 
 

Related to Scalar made from electromagnetic four potential

1. What is a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential?

A scalar made from electromagnetic four potential is a mathematical quantity that is derived from the four potential, which describes the electromagnetic field in space-time. It is a scalar, meaning it has only magnitude and no direction, and it is used in many equations and theories in physics.

2. How is a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential calculated?

A scalar made from electromagnetic four potential is calculated by taking the dot product of the four potential and the four gradient of the potential. This results in a scalar quantity that can be used in various calculations and equations.

3. What is the significance of a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential?

The significance of a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential lies in its use in various theories and equations in physics, particularly in the study of electromagnetism. It helps to describe the strength and behavior of electromagnetic fields in space-time and is an important concept in understanding the fundamental forces of nature.

4. Can a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential be observed or measured?

No, a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential cannot be directly observed or measured. It is a mathematical quantity that is used to describe the behavior of the electromagnetic field, but it does not have a physical manifestation that can be observed or measured.

5. How does a scalar made from electromagnetic four potential relate to other scalar quantities in physics?

A scalar made from electromagnetic four potential is related to other scalar quantities in physics, such as electric potential and temperature, through its mathematical properties and equations. However, it is unique in that it is derived from the four potential, which describes the electromagnetic field, rather than from a physical quantity like electric charge or energy.

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