Tag: Electromagnetic Waves
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Chapter 26: Electromagnetic Waves
26.1 Introduction In this chapter, we will explore electromagnetic waves, a type of wave that propagates through space as a combination of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. Electromagnetic waves are crucial in numerous applications, including communication, imaging, and remote sensing. 26.2 Properties of Electromagnetic Waves Electromagnetic waves are characterized by their frequency, wavelength, and speed.…
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Poynting Vector
Introduction The Poynting vector is a fundamental concept in electromagnetism representing the directional energy flux density (the rate of energy transfer per unit area, in Watts per square meter) of an electromagnetic field. It is named after its inventor, the physicist John Henry Poynting. Definition the Poynting Vector The Poynting vector is defined as the…
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Mie Scattering
Introduction Mie scattering is a solution of Maxwell’s equations for the scattering of an electromagnetic plane wave by a homogeneous sphere. The term “Mie scattering” suggests scattering by particles that are similar in size to, or larger than, the wavelength of light. It is named after Gustav Mie, who first solved the scattering problem for…
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Permittivity of Free Space
Introduction The permittivity of free space, commonly denoted as , is a fundamental physical constant that measures the ability of a vacuum to permit electric field lines. It is a crucial parameter in the study of electromagnetism. Definition and Value The permittivity of free space is defined as the ratio of the electric flux density…
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Permeability of Free Space
Introduction The permeability of free space, often denoted as , is a physical constant that describes the amount of magnetic field produced per unit of magnetic current in a vacuum. It is one of the fundamental constants in physics and plays a vital role in the study of electromagnetism. Definition and Value The permeability of…
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Visible Light
Introduction Visible light is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye. It occupies a very small portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, roughly between the wavelengths of 400 and 700 nanometers. Electromagnetic Spectrum and Visible Light The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all possible frequencies of electromagnetic radiation. It…
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Hertz (unit)
Introduction The hertz (Hz) is the unit of frequency in the International System of Units (SI). It is named after the German physicist Heinrich Hertz, who made significant contributions to the study of electromagnetism. Definition One hertz is defined as one cycle per second. In mathematical terms, if a periodic event occurs once every second,…
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Electromagnetic Waves
Introduction Electromagnetic waves are waves of electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space carrying electromagnetic energy. They are solutions to Maxwell’s equations and encompass a wide range of phenomena including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Maxwell’s Equations Maxwell’s equations describe the behavior of both the electric and magnetic…
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Electromagnetic Spectrum
Introduction The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation, ordered by frequency and wavelength. From lowest frequency (longest wavelength) to highest frequency (shortest wavelength), the spectrum includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Wave Properties The basic properties of electromagnetic waves can be described by the wave equation and…
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Waveguide
Introduction A waveguide is a physical structure that is used to control and direct electromagnetic waves. They are commonly used in microwave communications, broadcasting, and radar installations. Basic Definition A waveguide is typically a hollow metal tube or dielectric slab that confines electromagnetic waves to travel in a direction defined by its physical boundaries. The…