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Simple Plane Electromagnetic Waves
A plane wave divides space with uniform electric and magnetic fields, moving along the x-axis at speed c.
Characteristics of Plane Waves
Electric and magnetic fields are uniform and perpendicular to each other and the direction of propagation.
Gauss's Law for Plane Waves
Electric and magnetic fields must be perpendicular to the wave propagation direction in the absence of electric charge.
What does Faraday's Law imply for plane waves?
A change in magnetic flux leads to an induced electric field.
Ampere's Law in the context of plane waves
A time-changing electric field produces a magnetic field, reinforcing the relationship between electric and magnetic fields.
Properties of Electromagnetic Waves: Field Orientation
Electric (E) and magnetic (B) fields are perpendicular to each other and the direction of wave propagation.
Speed of Electromagnetic Waves
In a vacuum, electromagnetic waves travel at c = 3.00 x 10^8 m/s.
Field Magnitude Relationship
The relationship between electric and magnetic fields is given by E = cB.
Do electromagnetic waves require a medium for propagation?
No, electromagnetic waves do not require a medium for propagation.
Direction of Propagation
Given by the cross product of the electric and magnetic fields.
Realistic vs. Plane Waves
Real-world EM waves are often sinusoidal but can be approximated as plane waves at large distances.
What must sinusoidal wave amplitudes and speeds satisfy?
Specific relationships to maintain wave properties.
Index of Refraction (n)
Ratio of speed of light in a vacuum to speed in the material, given by n = c/v.
What is the dielectric constant for Diamonds?
K = 5.84.
What is the dielectric constant for Ferrite?
K = 10 and Km = 1000 (high permeability).
Poynting vector in electromagnetic waves
The Poynting vector measures power per unit area and represents wave intensity.
Electromagnetic Radiation Pressure
EM waves can exert radiation pressure on surfaces, such as solar panels, based on wave intensity.
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