Calculating n^2 for Free Electrons with Friction Interactions

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the index of refraction, n^2, for free electrons influenced by friction interactions with positive ions. The formula provided includes variables such as electron density, charge, permittivity, mass, resonant frequency, incident frequency, and a friction coefficient. The user expresses uncertainty about setting the resonant frequency to zero for free electrons and how to properly incorporate the friction term into the calculation. There is a request for guidance on approaching the problem and suggestions for rewording the post to elicit more responses. The conversation highlights the complexities of applying theoretical concepts to practical scenarios in physics.
Skwishm
Messages
1
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The index of refraction is given by

n^2 = (N q / ε m) (1 / (ω0^2 - ω^2 + iγω))

Where N is the electron density, q is the charge of an electron, ε is the permittivity of free space, m is the mass of an electron, ω0 is the resonant frequency, ω is the incident frequency, and γ is the friction coefficient.

Consider the case of a free electron with a friction coefficient given by interactions with positive ions. What is n^2 for this case?

2. The attempt at a solution
I'm not super sure how to approach this problem. I figure that ω0 has to be 0 for free electrons, but I'm not sure what to do with the friction term. A gentle nudge in the right direction would be greatly appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Thanks for the post! Sorry you aren't generating responses at the moment. Do you have any further information, come to any new conclusions or is it possible to reword the post?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K