Defining Plane of Incidence for Normal Polarized Wave

However, if we choose a point on the surface and define the plane by the normal vectors at that point, we can determine the plane of incidence.In summary, the plane of incidence is defined by two vectors - the wave vector and the normal vector at a chosen point on the material surface. The reflection coefficient is determined by the combination of ordinary and extraordinary waves, which are both in the plane of incidence.
  • #1
fannyfanfanz
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How to define the plane of incidence for normal incidence of a plane polarized wave?
Is the reflection coefficient defined by ordinary, extraordinary, or the combination of both waves?

Thanks for the help!
 
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  • #2
The usual method is to define one line with the wave vector (normal to the plane wave), which is then fixed by a point of incidence at the material surface. The vector normal to the surface at that point gives you a second vector ... these then define the plane of incidence. The k-vector for the reflected wave will be in this plane.

If the wave vector is normal to the surface there is no unique plane of incidence.
 

1. What is the plane of incidence for normal polarized waves?

The plane of incidence for normal polarized waves is the imaginary plane that contains the incident ray, the reflected ray, and the normal to the surface where the wave is being reflected.

2. How is the plane of incidence determined for a normal polarized wave?

The plane of incidence is determined by the angle of incidence, which is the angle between the incident ray and the normal to the surface, and the angle of reflection, which is the angle between the reflected ray and the normal to the surface.

3. What is the significance of the plane of incidence in normal polarized waves?

The plane of incidence is important because it determines the direction of the reflected wave and the polarization of the wave. It also follows the law of reflection, which states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.

4. Can the plane of incidence change for a normal polarized wave?

Yes, the plane of incidence can change if the angle of incidence or the angle of reflection changes. This can happen if the incident wave passes through a different medium, or if the surface where the wave is being reflected is moving.

5. How is the plane of incidence related to the electric and magnetic fields in a normal polarized wave?

The electric and magnetic fields of a normal polarized wave are always perpendicular to each other and to the plane of incidence. This means that the electric and magnetic fields are also perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave.

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