The Mysteries of Fresnel's Equations: A Beginner's Guide

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around Fresnel's equations, specifically focusing on their role in describing the reflection and transmission of electromagnetic waves at an interface. Participants share resources and seek to clarify foundational concepts related to these equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to learn about Fresnel's equations, indicating a lack of prior knowledge.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on whether the original inquiry pertains to Fresnel zones or near field diffraction.
  • A participant clarifies that they are specifically interested in Fresnel's equations related to electromagnetic wave behavior at interfaces.
  • Suggestions for resources include Hecht's "Optics" for visual aids on polarization and Griffiths' "Introduction to Electrodynamics" for a more in-depth treatment of reflection from dielectric boundaries.
  • A link to a PDF discussing Fresnel's equations is provided, with a caution about the use of approximations in the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the relevance of Fresnel's equations to the discussion, but there is no consensus on the best resources or approaches for understanding them, as multiple suggestions are offered.

Contextual Notes

Some responses reference specific textbooks and online resources, but there is an acknowledgment that certain materials may involve approximations that could affect understanding.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for beginners seeking to understand Fresnel's equations and their applications in optics and electromagnetic theory.

physics love
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hello dears


I want to know a lot about fresnel’s equations

I don't know any thing about it ??

can you help me , please
 
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Are you referring to fresnel zones or near field diffraction?
 
DragonPetter said:
Are you referring to fresnel zones or near field diffraction?

I mean Fresnel's equations that describe the reflection and transmission of electromagnetic waves at an interface.
 
Check any good book on electromagnetics.
Hecht's book "Optics" has very good drawings that help understand the different polarizations.
 
You may refer to section 9.3.3 in Introduction to Electrodynamics by Griffiths it treats reflection from dielectric boundaries in a nice way and the same book has a section on the boundary conditions for electromagnetic wave at the end of chapter 7. For a quick discussion you may refer to the following link:
http://www.teknik.uu.se/ftf/education/ftf2/Optics_FresnelsEqns.pdf
However be warned that it makes use of some approximations.
 

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