Calculate Wavenumber of Radiation Through Glass

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The discussion focuses on calculating the wavenumber of electromagnetic radiation traveling through glass with a relative permittivity of ε=2.0 and relative permeability μ=1. The refractive index is calculated as n=√2, leading to a speed of radiation in glass of approximately 2.12x10^8 m/s. The frequency is determined to be about 4.46x10^6 Hz. Confusion arises regarding the correct calculation of the wavenumber, with two different methods yielding different results, prompting clarification on the proper approach. The conversation highlights the importance of accuracy in calculations and the need to check for typographical errors.
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Homework Statement


Glass has a permeability of ε=2.0 and relative permeability μ=1.
Electromagnetic radiation of angular frequency ω=2.8x109 s-1. travels through the glass. Calculate
a) refractive index
b) speed of radiation
c) frequency of radiation
d) wavenumber of radiation

a, b and c are straightforward but d I have questions for


Homework Equations


n=√ε
n=c/v
f=ω/2∏
v=ω/k
ω=2∏f
k=n2∏f/v



The Attempt at a Solution



a) refractive index, n=√ε = √2

b) speed of radiation traveling through glass,
n = c/v
so v = c/n
v = 3.0x108 ms-1 / √2
v = 2.12x108 ms-1

c) frequency of radiation, f = ω/2∏
f = 2.8x109 s-1 / 2∏
f = 4.46x106 Hz

d)wavenumber of radiation
now v = ω/k - where k is the wavenumber
so make k the subject
k = ω/v
k = 2.8x109 s-1 / 2.12x108 ms-1
k = 13.2

BUT

ω = 2∏f
and
k=n2∏f/v

so k = (2x2∏x 4.46x106) / 2.12x108 ms-1
k = 0.132

So which is right, please?
 
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So which is right, please?
The first one.

Note: ##y(x,t)=A\sin(kx-\omega t + \delta)## ... which means that ##k=2\pi/\lambda## ... i.e. inverse wavelength in the medium.

If v is the speed in the medium, then ##v=f\lambda \implies c=nf\lambda## is the speed in a vacuum.

So ##k=2n\pi f/c## ... recognize it?
 
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Roodles01 said:

Homework Statement


Glass has a permeability of ε=2.0
Don't you mean relative permittivity? :biggrin:

c) frequency of radiation, f = ω/2∏
f = 2.8x109 s-1 / 2∏
f = 4.46x106 Hz

Try that one again. Keep an eye on the exponent. You're a couple orders of magnitude off there.
 
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Yes, I see.
And yes, typo's.

Ta.
 
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