Uncovering the Mysteries of Electromagnetic Wave Equations in Antenna Theory

In summary, there are two partial differential equations that relate to Antenna Theory, one for electric field and one for magnetic field, which involve a cross product and the use of a "trick" to solve them. There may be some geometries where the equations can be solved directly, but in most cases, a "trick" must be used. A recommended textbook for more detailed coverage on PDE's and greens function is also requested.
  • #1
rppearso
204
3
Is it possible to solve these partial differential equations directly, relating to Antenna Theory;

[tex]∇^2 E - μ_0 ε_0 \frac{∂^2E}{∂t^2} = -μ_0 \frac{∂J}{∂t}.[/tex] AND [tex]∇^2 B - μ_0 ε_0 \frac{∂^2B}{∂t^2} = -μ_0 ∇ x J.[/tex]

I don't like the idea of having to make up fields that don't exist in order to make the math work. The x is a cross product not a variable or multiplication.
 
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  • #2
Here, let me help with that:[tex]\nabla^2 \vec B - \mu_0 \epsilon_0 \frac{\partial^2\vec B}{\partial t^2} = -\mu_0 \nabla \times \vec J.[/tex]... better? (Hit "quote" to see how I did that.)

There may be some geometries where the equations can be solved directly, I've not heard of any for antennas. Follows that you have to use a Trick. Welcome to realmaths.
 
  • #3
What is the best textbook on PDE's that cover greens function in detail?
 

1. What is the electromagnetic wave equation?

The electromagnetic wave equation is a mathematical expression that describes the behavior of electromagnetic waves. It relates the electric and magnetic fields in a vacuum to their sources, which are electric charges and currents. The equation is a fundamental part of Maxwell's equations, which describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields.

2. What is the significance of the electromagnetic wave equation?

The electromagnetic wave equation is significant because it allows us to understand and predict the behavior of electromagnetic waves. These waves are essential for communication, as they are used in technologies such as radio, television, and cell phones. The equation also helped to demonstrate the existence of electromagnetic waves and their ability to travel through a vacuum, which was a significant discovery in physics.

3. How is the electromagnetic wave equation derived?

The electromagnetic wave equation is derived from Maxwell's equations, which are a set of four equations that describe the behavior of electric and magnetic fields. The wave equation is obtained by combining two of these equations, known as Gauss's law for electricity and Ampere's law, and applying some mathematical manipulations. The resulting equation is a partial differential equation that describes the propagation of electromagnetic waves.

4. What are the solutions to the electromagnetic wave equation?

The solutions to the electromagnetic wave equation are sinusoidal functions of time and space. These solutions represent the electric and magnetic fields of the electromagnetic waves as they travel through space. The speed of the waves depends on the properties of the medium they are passing through, such as the permittivity and permeability of the material. In a vacuum, the speed of electromagnetic waves is equal to the speed of light.

5. How is the electromagnetic wave equation used in practical applications?

The electromagnetic wave equation is used in many practical applications, such as wireless communication, radar, and satellite technology. It allows engineers to design and optimize devices that use electromagnetic waves, such as antennas and transmitters. The equation is also essential in the study of optics, as light is an electromagnetic wave and can be described by the same equation. Additionally, the wave equation is used in the field of electromagnetic compatibility to ensure that electronic devices do not interfere with each other's signals.

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