Clarification on field intensity (electromagnetism)

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SUMMARY

The intensity of a general electromagnetic wave is defined as the norm of its Poynting vector, represented mathematically as $$\vec{I}=\vec{S}=\frac{1}{\mu_0} \vec{E} \times \vec{B}$$. While intensity is typically understood as energy flux per unit time, it is crucial to consider the temporal average of this quantity for accurate measurements. The discussion emphasizes the importance of these definitions in understanding electromagnetic field behavior.

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  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave theory
  • Familiarity with the Poynting vector and its significance
  • Knowledge of energy flux concepts in physics
  • Basic grasp of temporal averaging in wave analysis
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kent davidge
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Is the intensity of a general electromagnetic wave always the norm of its Poyinting vector?
Or are there other notions of intensity?
 
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Since by definition "intensity" is the energy flux per unit time that's right, but usually you have to take also the temporal average. Also see

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intensität_(Physik)

Note that the energy flux for an em. field (in vacuo) is given by the Poynting vector
$$\vec{I}=\vec{S}=\frac{1}{\mu_0} \vec{E} \times \vec{B}.$$
 
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