Electromagnetic gauge-freedom and work

Abstract

We argue that the definition of the thermodynamic work done on a charged particle by a time-dependent electromagnetic field is an open problem, because the particle's Hamiltonian is not gauge-invariant. The solution of this problem demands accounting for the source of the field. Hence we focus on the work done by a heavy body (source) on a lighter particle when the interaction between them is electromagnetic and relativistic. The work can be defined via the gauge-invariant kinetic energy of the source. We uncover a formulation of the first law (or the generalized work-energy theorem) which is derived from relativistic dynamics, has definite validity conditions, and relates the work to the particle's Hamiltonian in the Lorenz gauge. Thereby the thermodynamic work also relates to the mechanic work done by the Lorentz force acting on the source. The formulation of the first law is based on a specific separation of the overall energy into those of the source, particle and electromagnetic field. This separation is deduced from a consistent energy-momentum tensor. Hence it holds relativistic covariance and causality.