Attenuation of em waves- unknown relationship help.

This equation is commonly used in the study of electromagnetic wave propagation in conducting mediums. In summary, the conversation discusses a mathematical equation involving symbols that represent various properties related to the attenuation of electromagnetic waves in a conducting medium. The equation is commonly used in this field of study and can be found in a specific source provided by one of the speakers.
  • #1
Random999
2
0
Sorry if this is in the wrong place. Was not sure what it is categorised as.

I have come across the following:[itex]e^{-\frac{\omega}{c} nkz}[/itex], referring to attenuation of a wave.

It was found here:

http://www.astarmathsandphysics.com/university_physics_notes/optics/university_physics_notes_propagation_of_electromagnetic_waves_in_a_conducting_medium.html

I have been unable to find this anywhere else. I was wondering if anyone else has seen it before and if so where I may find more info about it. Is anyone able to suggest what the symbols represent?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The symbols in the equation refer to the angular frequency (ω), the speed of light in a vacuum (c), the refractive index of the medium (n), and the wave vector (k) multiplied by the distance traveled (z). The minus sign indicates that the wave is being attenuated, so the larger the value of this equation, the greater the attenuation of the wave.
 

Related to Attenuation of em waves- unknown relationship help.

1. What is attenuation of electromagnetic waves?

Attenuation of electromagnetic waves refers to the decrease in intensity or strength of an electromagnetic wave as it travels through a medium. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as absorption, scattering, or reflection.

2. What is the relationship between attenuation and frequency of em waves?

The relationship between attenuation and frequency of electromagnetic waves is complex and depends on the properties of the medium through which the wave is traveling. Generally, higher frequencies tend to experience more attenuation than lower frequencies, but this can vary greatly depending on the specific characteristics of the medium.

3. How does attenuation affect the transmission of em waves?

Attenuation can significantly impact the transmission of electromagnetic waves. As the wave travels through a medium, its intensity decreases, which can result in a weaker signal or loss of information. In some cases, attenuation can also cause distortion or interference in the wave.

4. What is the role of distance in attenuation of em waves?

Distance can play a significant role in the attenuation of electromagnetic waves. As the wave travels a longer distance, it encounters more opportunities for attenuation to occur, such as passing through different mediums or encountering obstacles. This can result in a greater decrease in intensity and a weaker signal at the receiver.

5. How is attenuation of em waves measured?

The attenuation of electromagnetic waves is typically measured in decibels (dB). This unit measures the ratio of the wave's initial intensity to its final intensity after traveling through a medium. A higher dB value indicates a greater attenuation, while a lower dB value indicates less attenuation.

Similar threads

I EM Power transmitted from one region to another (normal incidence)
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
6
Views
738
Understanding EM Wave Attenuation in Conductors and Dielectrics
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
3K
Electromagnetic wave equation - phase and amplitude
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
7
Views
2K
Exploring the Medium of EM Waves: Dark Matter?
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
18
Views
4K
EM waves, Light, radio and all that.
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
2K
Visualizing EM Waves: 3D Model & Resonant Cavity Simulation in Java Applet
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
3K
Wave Attenuation: Struggling in Course? Resources to Help
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
1
Views
1K
EM Wave in Plasma: Reflection, Attenuation & Radiated Power
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Gravitational Waves Affecting EM Fields: Evidence & Implications
    • Special and General Relativity
Replies
11
Views
2K
A Inhomogeneous wave equation: RHS orthogonal to homogeneous solutions
    • Differential Equations
Replies
3
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top