Refractive index for magnetic material

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the refractive index of magnetic materials, particularly in relation to metamaterials and the expressions used to describe their optical properties. Participants explore the validity of different formulations for the refractive index and the models applicable to magnetic materials.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that the refractive index for magnetic materials can be expressed as n=√μ, drawing a parallel to the expression for dielectric materials.
  • Another participant suggests that while the expression n=√μ is possible, it is not very general and emphasizes the importance of considering spatial dispersion in magnetic effects.
  • A later reply confirms the validity of the expression n=√μ for magnetic materials.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is some agreement on the expression n=√μ being valid for magnetic materials, but there is also a contention regarding its general applicability and the need for a more comprehensive approach that includes spatial dispersion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the broader implications of using n=√μ in various contexts, nor does it clarify the limitations of this expression in relation to different models of magnetic materials.

wasi-uz-zaman
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hi, I have studied the general expression for metamaterial as

n=√(εμ)
for dielectric relative permeability is one and we have
n=√ε,
but what would be the refractive index for magnetic material , by seeing symmetry I figure out as
n=√μ
will it be valid and we have Lorentz model for dielectric do we have some model for magnetic material.
thanks
wasi
 
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This is possible but not very general. Magnetic effects are but a special case of spatial dispersion. It is better to set ##\mu=1## and describe all possible magnetic effects in terms of a dielectric function depending not only on frequency but also on wavenumber, i.e. ##n=\sqrt{\epsilon(\omega,\mathbf{k})}##.
 
thanks but for magnetic material
n=√μ

is this a valid expression for refractive index of magnetic materials.
 
Yes, of course
 
thanks a lot
 
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