Group Velocity and Phase Velocity

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on deriving expressions for group velocity and phase velocity in uniaxial crystals, specifically focusing on the extraordinary wave. The group velocity is defined as vg = Δk/ω(k), and the angle α between phase velocity and group velocity is explored. Key calculations involve determining the angle α at which it is maximized, particularly for quartz with refractive indices no = 1.554 and ne = 1.553. The maximum angular separation occurs at 45 degrees, with αmax being proportional to the difference between no and ne.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of wave propagation in uniaxial crystals
  • Familiarity with refractive indices no and ne
  • Knowledge of group velocity and phase velocity definitions
  • Basic calculus for deriving expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of group velocity in uniaxial crystals
  • Learn about the relationship between phase velocity and group velocity
  • Research the properties of quartz and its refractive indices
  • Explore wave normal surfaces and their implications in optics
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Students and researchers in optics, physicists studying wave propagation, and anyone interested in the behavior of light in uniaxial crystals.

Joystar77
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I have no idea how to do this or where to start. Can someone please help me?

Problem 4.4- Suppose n o and n e are given. In (a) you only need to find the magnitude of the group velocity. Problem #2 in HW 10 may be helpful. You can also directly use the definition of group velocity, i.e., v g = triangle k w (k), taking into account the equation of the wave normal surface.

4.4- Group Velocity and Phase Velocity

a.) Derive an expression for the group velocity of the extraordinary wave in a uniaxial crystal as a function of the polar angle 0 of the propagation vector.

b.) Derive an expression for the angle a between the phase velocity and the group velocity. This angle is also the angle between the field vectors E and D.

c.) Show that a = 0 when 0 = 0, ½ pi. Find the angle at which a is maximized and obtain an expression for a max. Calculate this angle a max for quartz with n o = 1.554, n e = 1.553.

d.) Show that for no or ne, the maximum angular separation a max occurs at 0 = 45 degrees; show that a max is proportional to [ n o – n e].
 
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I'm afraid no one is going to be able to help you without more information. Certainly no one here knows what "problem #2 in HW 10" is!

What are you using as the definitions of "phase velocity" and "group velocity"?
 

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