Group velocity for an electromagnetic wave inside glass

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SUMMARY

The group velocity for an electromagnetic wave in glass can be calculated using the formula v_g = v_p + k (d v_p/dk). The phase velocity v_p is defined as v_p = c/n, where c is the speed of light and n is the refractive index. The relationship v_g = c/n + k(-\omega/k^2) holds true, with k defined as k = \omega n/c and \omega = 2 \pi v_p/\lambda. The discussion also highlights the distinction between k and k_0, indicating that k_0 may refer to a specific wave vector in certain contexts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave theory
  • Familiarity with the concepts of phase velocity and group velocity
  • Knowledge of refractive index and its implications in optics
  • Basic calculus, particularly derivatives
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of dispersion in electromagnetic waves
  • Study the derivation and applications of the group velocity formula
  • Explore the differences between k and k_0 in wave mechanics
  • Learn about the effects of refractive index on wave propagation in different media
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, optical engineers, and students studying wave mechanics or electromagnetism will benefit from this discussion.

happyparticle
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Hi,

I saw that the group velocity for an electromagnetic wave can be calculate with the following formula
##v_g = v_p + k \frac{d v_p}{dk}##

Thus, since ##v_p = \frac{c}{n} = \frac{\omega}{k}##

Is it correct to say that ##v_g = \frac{c}{n} + k(- \frac{\omega}{k^2})## where ##k = \frac{\omega n}{c}## and ##\omega = \frac{2 \pi v_p}{\lambda}##

Moreover, I see sometime ##k_0## instead of k. I'm wondering why and what's the difference.

Thanks
 
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If there is dispersion (when the group and phase velocities are different) omega is a function of k. So you need to include $$d\omega/dk$$ to your derivative.
 
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