SUMMARY
Lightwaves penetrate salt water due to their high frequency, which allows for deeper skin depth compared to radiowaves. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding complex conductivity, particularly how the conductivity of salt water varies with frequency. While light operates at trillions of Hertz, the conductivity of salt water, influenced by heavy ions, significantly increases resistance at such high frequencies. Therefore, conductivity is not a constant and must be evaluated in the context of the frequency being considered.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of complex conductivity and its equations
- Knowledge of electromagnetic wave behavior in conductive mediums
- Familiarity with the concept of skin depth in wave propagation
- Basic principles of ion movement in electrolytes
NEXT STEPS
- Research the equation for complex conductivity in detail
- Study the effects of frequency on the conductivity of various materials
- Learn about skin depth calculations for different electromagnetic waves
- Explore the behavior of ions in salt water under varying frequencies
USEFUL FOR
Physicists, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the interaction of electromagnetic waves with conductive materials, particularly in marine environments.