Group velocity for an electromagnetic wave inside glass

In summary, the conversation discussed the calculation of group velocity for an electromagnetic wave using the formula v_g = v_p + k(d v_p/dk). It was also mentioned that v_p can be calculated using the formula c/n = omega/k. The question arose about whether it is correct to include an additional term, k(-omega/k^2), in the calculation of v_g when k = omega n/c and omega = 2pi v_p/lambda. The use of k_0 instead of k was also brought up, with the clarification that this is due to dispersion and the need to include d omega/dk in the derivative.
  • #1
happyparticle
400
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Hi,

I saw that the group velocity for an electromagnetic wave can be calculate with the following formula
##v_g = v_p + k \frac{d v_p}{dk}##

Thus, since ##v_p = \frac{c}{n} = \frac{\omega}{k}##

Is it correct to say that ##v_g = \frac{c}{n} + k(- \frac{\omega}{k^2})## where ##k = \frac{\omega n}{c}## and ##\omega = \frac{2 \pi v_p}{\lambda}##

Moreover, I see sometime ##k_0## instead of k. I'm wondering why and what's the difference.

Thanks
 
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  • #2
If there is dispersion (when the group and phase velocities are different) omega is a function of k. So you need to include $$d\omega/dk$$ to your derivative.
 
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1. What is group velocity for an electromagnetic wave inside glass?

The group velocity for an electromagnetic wave inside glass refers to the speed at which the energy of the wave travels through the material. This is different from the phase velocity, which refers to the speed at which the wave's crests and troughs move.

2. How is group velocity different from phase velocity?

Group velocity and phase velocity are two different ways of measuring the speed of an electromagnetic wave. While phase velocity refers to the speed of the wave's oscillations, group velocity refers to the speed at which the wave's energy is transmitted through the material.

3. What factors affect the group velocity of an electromagnetic wave inside glass?

The group velocity of an electromagnetic wave inside glass is affected by the material's refractive index, the frequency of the wave, and the angle at which the wave enters the glass.

4. How does the group velocity of an electromagnetic wave inside glass compare to its velocity in a vacuum?

The group velocity of an electromagnetic wave inside glass is slower than its velocity in a vacuum due to the wave's interactions with the material's atoms and molecules.

5. Why is the group velocity of an electromagnetic wave inside glass important?

The group velocity of an electromagnetic wave inside glass is important because it affects the speed at which information can be transmitted through optical fibers, which are commonly made of glass. It also plays a role in various optical phenomena, such as refraction and diffraction.

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