Opening the simulation, the potential V(x,y) of a single point source situated at the zero point of the xy plane (transparent blue) is shown along the z axis in magenta
in a 3D projection. To avoid the singularity at z = 0 the distribution in a plane slightly above the xy plane (zmin = 0.005) is calculated. The range of the coordinates is -2.5 < x , y, z < +2.5).
The distance z from the xy plane is defined by a vertical slider positioned at the right side of the window. The potential at z above the xy plane is calculated as a function of x and y.
The left slider positions a yellow plane parallel to the xy plane. Its intersection with the potential distribution shows an equipotential line of the chosen potential (rotate the 3D projection for proper viewing).
The 3D projection can by rotated by drawing with the mouse. Option radio buttons in the range projection select well defined views. For good recognition of equipotential lines the xy projection is well suited.
Transgression of certain limits in perspective may create artifacts (black areas). In such a case return to a well defined projection.
The combobox allows selection of the following predefined cases
-- 1 Object
-- 2 Objects of equal polarity at a distance of 2 R
-- 3 Objects of equal polarity at a distance of 2 R
-- Dipole: 2 Objects of opposite polarity at a distance of 2 R
-- Quadrupole: 2 Dipoles (4 objects of interchanging polarity) at a distance of 2 R
The half source distance R can be defined with the upper slider R.
The text field f(x,y) shows the formula of the potential as a function of x, y, z. It is editable; you can change it or enter completely new potential functions.
The relative source size can be changed by sliders b and c, where applicable. This way one can for example simulate the situation of a star with one or two companions of different sizes.