Introduction to Extended Electrodynamics

Abstract

This paper summarizes the motivations and results obtained so far in the frame of a particular non-linearization of Classical Electrodynamics, which was called Extended Electrodynamics. The main purpose pursued with this non-linear extension of the classical Maxwell's equations is to have a reliable field-theoretical approach in describing (3+1) soliton-like electromagnetic formations, in particular, to build an extended and finite field model of free photons and photon complexes. The first chapter gives a corresponding analysis of Maxwell theory and introduces the new equations. The second chapter gives a full account of the results, including the photon-like solutions, in the vacuum case. A new concept, called scale factor, is defined and successfully used. Two ways for describing the intrinsic angular momentum are given. Interference of two photon-like solutions is also considered. The third chapter considers interaction with external fields (continuous media) on the base of establishing correspondence between the physical concept of nondissipation and the mathematical concept of integrability of Pfaff systems. A large family of solutions is found, allowing a (3+1) interpretation of all known (1+1) soliton solutions.