von Laue’s theorem and its applications

Abstract

von Laue’s theorem, as well as its generalized form, is strictly proved in detail for its sufficient and necessary condition (SNC). This SNC version of Laue’s theorem is used to analyze the infinitely extended electrostatic field produced by a charged metal sphere in free space, and the static field confined in a finite region of space. It is shown in general that the total (Abraham=Minkowski) electromagnetic momentum and energy for the electrostatic field cannot constitute a Lorentz four-vector. A derivative von Laue’s theorem, which provides a criterion for a Lorentz invariant, is also presented.