Introduction to Electrodynamics · Problem 10.7

Potentials and Fields — David J. Griffiths

Physics · time-dependent-point-charge

Problem

A time-dependent point charge q(t)q(t) at the origin, ρ(r,t)=q(t)δ3(r)\rho(\mathbf{r},t) = q(t)\delta^3(\mathbf{r}), is fed by a current J(r,t)=−(1/4π)(q˙/r2)r^\mathbf{J}(\mathbf{r},t) = -(1/4\pi)(\dot{q}/r^2)\hat{\mathbf{r}}, where q˙≡dq/dt\dot{q} \equiv dq/dt. (a) Check that charge is conserved, by confirming that the continuity equation is obeyed. (b) Find the scalar and vector potentials in the Coulomb gauge. If you get stuck, try working on (c) first. (c) Find the fields, and check that they satisfy all of Maxwell's equations.

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