Derivation of complex refractive index

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on deriving the complex refractive index from the Helmholtz equation, specifically the relation n^2 = μc^2(ε + i(σ/ω)). A user seeks clarification on how to arrive at the equations for n^2 and κ^2. The response highlights that by substituting n = n + iκ into n^2, one can separate real and imaginary parts to form two equations. The user realizes that solving a quadratic equation after substitution leads to the desired results. The conversation concludes with an acknowledgment of the solution process.
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Hi,

Got a problem with the following derivation:

Coming from the Helmholtz equation one gets:

\textbf{n}^2=\muc^{2}(\epsilon+i\frac{\sigma}{\omega})

which is of course something like:

\textbf{n}=n+i\kappa

My question is, how do you obtain the following relations?

n^{2}=\frac{1}{2}\muc^{2}\epsilon(\sqrt{1+(\frac{\sigma}{\epsilon\omega})^{2}}+1)
\kappa^{2}=\frac{1}{2}\muc^{2}\epsilon(\sqrt{1+(\frac{\sigma}{\epsilon\omega})^{2}}-1)

Maybe it's obvious, but I am arriving at everything but this. Enlighten me guys and thanks if you do.
 
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n=n+ik, put into n^2 and you will have two eqn ,one equating the real part and other equating the imaginary part which you can solve to get.if that is what you are asking.
 
That's right, but the problem is you cannot separate n or κ out. For example you get something like

n^{2}(n^{2}-\muc^{2}\epsilon)=(\frac{μc^{2}σ}{2ω})^{2}

and I don't see how to get to n2.

Oh, OK, just have to solve the quadratic equation after substitution and one gets to the results, duh! Thanks!
 
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