Self-force of a point charge in the space-time of a symmetric wormhole

Abstract

We consider the self-energy and the self-force for an electrically charged particle at rest in the wormhole space-time. We develop general approach and apply it to two specific profiles of the wormhole throat with singular and with smooth curvature. The self-force for these two profiles is found in manifest form; it is an attractive force. We also find an expression for the self-force in the case of arbitrary symmetric throat profile. Far from the throat the self-force is always attractive.