On external fields created by fixed charges

Abstract In this paper equilibrium measures in the presence of external fields created by fixed charges are analyzed. These external fields are a particular case of the so-called rational external fields (in the sense that their derivatives are rational functions). Along with some general results, a thorough analysis of the particular case of two fixed negative charges (“attractors”) is presented; indeed, the main result of the paper deals with this particular case. As for the main tools used, this paper is a natural continuation of [31] , where polynomial external fields were thoroughly studied, and [37] , where rational external fields with a polynomial part were considered. However, the absence of the polynomial part in the external fields analyzed in the current paper adds a considerable difficulty to solve the problem and justifies its separated treatment; moreover, it is noteworthy to point out the simplicity and beauty of the results obtained.