A new approach in the derivation of the Larmor formula for radiation loss from an accelerating charged particle
Normally, the Larmor formula for the rate of energy loss from an accelerating charged particle (e.g., an electron) is derived by considering the energy due to the acceleration field being transmitted to infinity without attenuation. This method does not give any insight into the actual physical phenomenon occurring at the particle itself that is responsible for the loss of energy. To circumvent this problem, we develop a different approach in which the Larmor formula is derived by considering the work done against self-forces created within the particle when it is accelerated. We carry out this analysis in three dimensions so that it is easy to visualize the events happening inside the particle during the acceleration that result in loss of energy. Thus, our method clearly demonstrates the mechanism of energy loss from an accelerated charged particle.