Bridging Circuits and Fields: Foundational Questions in Power Theory

By: Alexander I. Petroianu

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Synopsis: Energy and power are fundamental concepts in electromagnetism and circuit theory, as well as in optics, signal processing, power engineering, electrical machines, and power electronics. However, in crossing the disciplinary borders, we encounter understanding difficulties due to (1) the many possible mathematical representations of the same physical objects, and (2) the many possible physical interpretations of the same mathematical entities. The monograph proposes a quantum and a relativistic approach to electromagnetic power theory that is based on recent advances in physics and mathematics. The book takes a fresh look at old debates related to the significance of the Poynting theorem and the interpretation of reactive power. Reformulated in the mathematical language of geometric algebra, the new expression of electromagnetic power reflects the laws of conservation of energy-momentum in fields and circuits. The monograph offers a mathematically consistent and a physically coherent interpretation of the power concept and of the mechanism of power transmission at the subatomic (mesoscopic) level. The monograph proves (paraphrasing Heaviside) that there is no finality in the development of a vibrant discipline: power theory.