Refraction Index Conventions: Complex Reflection/Transmission Coeff.

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The discussion centers on the conventions used for expressing the index of refraction, specifically the forms n'-jn" and n'+jn", and their impact on complex reflection and transmission coefficients. It is noted that while these coefficients may vary based on the chosen convention, the measurable quantities of transmittivity and reflectivity should remain consistent regardless of the convention used. One participant emphasizes that differing results for transmittivity and reflectivity would imply a fundamental change in physics based on arbitrary conventions, which is deemed unacceptable. The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining consistent physical interpretations across different mathematical representations. Overall, the forum participants seek clarity on how these conventions affect optical properties.
Josette
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Hi! I'm new to this forum.
The index of refraction of a medium can be expressed as n'-jn" or n'+jn" as per the convention chosen for the phase advance in time(n" stands for absorption). Am I right in saying that the complex reflection/transmission coefficient calculated as a function of frequency would be different for the 2 conventions?
Thanks for helping...
 
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Hi! lonely question!
I don't understand what you mean by convention chosen for the phase advance in time. Anyway, the convention should be determined so that transmitted light is correctly described as attenuated one. The complex transmission/reflection coefficient may differ from convention to convention. But transmittivity and reflectivity calculated from those coefficients should not differ. Because transmittivity and reflectivity are measureable quantities. If those differ from convention to convention, physics changes by convention used to describe the phenomena. I think it is unacceptable.
 

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