Polarizaition and susceptibility

In summary, the relation between (linear) polarization and susceptibility in a linear isotropic medium can be written as a convolution in the time domain or as a product in the frequency domain. The frequency dependency of susceptibility is known as dispersion. The convolution form is typically not mentioned in textbooks, but it is the more accurate representation. As for a reference, you can refer to "Introduction to Electrodynamics" by David J. Griffiths, where the author explains the convolution relation between polarization, susceptibility, and field in detail.
  • #1
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In some unit, the relation of (linear) polarization and susceptibility can be written of

[tex]P(t) = \chi E(t)[/tex]

but I also read some expression in other text reads

[tex]P(\omega) = \chi(\omega) E(\omega)[/tex]

why change the time to frequency? Why polarization depends on frequency?
 
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  • #2
Your equations are not really written correctly. The first one, the time dependent one, should really be written as a convolution: The polarization of a linear isotropic medium with a local but noninstantaneous response (but still independent of time) is:

P(t)=[itex]\int \chi(t-\tau)E(\tau)d\tau[/itex]

And taking the Fourier transform of this equation provides your second expression.

If the material responds instantaneously and has no memory[[itex]\chi(t-\tau) = \chi\delta(t-\tau)[/itex]], then the convolution integral reduces to your first expression.

Having a frequency-dependent susceptibility is simply dispersion.
 
  • #3
Andy Resnick said:
Your equations are not really written correctly. The first one, the time dependent one, should really be written as a convolution: The polarization of a linear isotropic medium with a local but noninstantaneous response (but still independent of time) is:

P(t)=[itex]\int \chi(t-\tau)E(\tau)d\tau[/itex]

And taking the Fourier transform of this equation provides your second expression.

If the material responds instantaneously and has no memory[[itex]\chi(t-\tau) = \chi\delta(t-\tau)[/itex]], then the convolution integral reduces to your first expression.

Having a frequency-dependent susceptibility is simply dispersion.

Oh ... I just wonder why in textbook they don't say it is a convolution! So you mean in frequency domain susceptibility is the repsonse function?

BTW, can you tell me one text in which the author show clearly the convolution relation b/w polarization, susceptibility and field? I am writing a short report and need a reference
 

What is polarization?

Polarization is the phenomenon where the electric field of a light wave oscillates in a specific direction. This can occur in both transverse and longitudinal waves.

What is the difference between linear and circular polarization?

Linear polarization is when the electric field oscillates in a single plane, while circular polarization is when the electric field rotates in a circular motion. Linear polarization can be achieved through the use of polarizers, while circular polarization can be created through the use of special optics or by using a combination of linear polarizers at specific angles.

What is susceptibility?

Susceptibility is a measure of how easily a material can be polarized when placed in an electric field. It is a dimensionless quantity that is used to describe the relationship between the polarization and the electric field in a material.

How does temperature affect susceptibility?

Generally, as the temperature of a material increases, its susceptibility decreases. This is because thermal energy causes the molecules in the material to vibrate more, making it more difficult for them to align with an external electric field.

What is the relationship between polarization and susceptibility?

Polarization and susceptibility are directly related - an increase in susceptibility leads to an increase in the polarization of a material when placed in an electric field. Similarly, a decrease in susceptibility leads to a decrease in polarization. This relationship is described by the equation P = χE, where P is the polarization, χ is the susceptibility, and E is the electric field strength.

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