Maxwell’s equations

Definition

Maxwell's equations are a set of four fundamental laws that describe how electric and magnetic fields interact and propagate. They form the foundation of classical electromagnetism, optics, and electric circuits.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Maxwell's equations consist of Gauss's law for electricity, Gauss's law for magnetism, Faraday's law of induction, and Ampère's law with Maxwell's addition.
2. Gauss's law for electricity states that the electric flux through a closed surface is proportional to the charge enclosed by the surface.
3. Gauss's law for magnetism states that there are no magnetic monopoles; the net magnetic flux through a closed surface is zero.
4. Faraday’s law of induction explains how a time-varying magnetic field induces an electric field.
5. Ampère’s law with Maxwell’s addition shows that magnetic fields can be generated by electric currents and changing electric fields.

Review Questions

• What are the four individual laws that make up Maxwell’s equations?
• How does Faraday’s law relate to electromagnetic induction?
• Why does Gauss’s law for magnetism imply the non-existence of magnetic monopoles?

Related terms

Electromagnetic Wave: A wave consisting of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, which propagates through space at the speed of light.

Electric Flux: A measure of the number of electric field lines passing through a given area.

Magnetic Monopole: A hypothetical particle that would act as an isolated magnet with only one magnetic pole; not observed in nature according to current scientific understanding.