Cylindrical resonance cavity problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the electric field and dispersion relation in a cylindrical cavity defined by length "d" and radius "a" using Maxwell's equations. The user, Daniel, attempts to solve the vector Helmholtz equation, leading to a complex Laplacian in cylindrical coordinates. He successfully derives the equation for the axial component, E_z, but struggles with the radial (E_r) and azimuthal (E_φ) components due to their interdependence. Daniel seeks guidance on obtaining an exact solution without making simplifying assumptions.

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danielakkerma
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Hello all!

Homework Statement


Consider a cylindrical cavity with length "d" and radius "a". Find the corresponding electric field, and the dispersion relation therein.

Homework Equations


Maxwell's equations.

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to solve the appropriate vector Helmholtz equation(obtained by assuming harmonic time-dependence of the waves in the cavity).
Within the cylinder, one arrives at(where: \vec{E}=\vec{E_0}(r, \varphi, z)e^{-i \omega t})
<br /> \vec{\nabla}^2 \vec{E_0} = \frac{\omega^2}{c^2} \vec{E_0}<br />
However, since \vec{E_0} = E_r \hat{r} + E_\varphi \hat{\varphi} + E_z \hat{z}, the Laplacian becomes far more convoluted in the cylindrical form.
Solving for Ez is not that difficult(with appropriate separation of variables).
However, how does one find E_r, E_phi?
After all, solving for the wave equation for the r, phi components involves:
<br /> (\vec{\nabla}^2 \vec{E_0})_r = \vec{\nabla}^2 E_r - \frac{1}{r^2}(E_r + 2\frac{\partial E_{\varphi}}{\partial \varphi})<br />
However, this equation for E_r requires E_phi; and obviously, the components of E_r are not necessarily identical to E_phi, so substituting one for the other(through analogous separation of variables for both) is impossible here.
Without making any other assumptions(or simplifications; for instance, I managed to simplify the problem greatly if I assumed complete azimuthal symmetry(i.e. E_phi = 0 & d/dphi =0)), is there any way to obtain an exact solution for this? Where should I turn to, next?
Thank you for your attention,
Reliant on your help,
Daniel
 
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Going to have to bump this; is this at all solvable?
 
Bump

Bumping again.
 

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