Mechanical forces in a dielectric due to electromagnetic fields

Abstract

Experimental evidence is obtained indicating a mechanical force in a dielectric subjected to crossed electric and magnetic fields consistent with the predictions of the Abraham energy momentum tensor. In the course of the experiment a most unusual force was observed, which appeared as a surface drag on a thin metal coating applied to the dielectric. It is suggested that the force was due to the action of a tangential electric field component acting on the induced surface charge of the metal coating.