Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the transmission of electromagnetic (EM) waves in conductors when incident at an angle, particularly focusing on the concept of polarization in relation to the plane of incidence. Participants explore the implications of perpendicular polarization and its effects on boundary conditions and wave interactions.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant notes that when an EM wave strikes a charged barrier, it can be reflected or transmitted, and questions how light can be polarized perpendicular to the plane of incidence.
- Another participant clarifies that the E field of light has both parallel and perpendicular components relative to the plane of incidence, suggesting that the original poster may have only encountered parallel polarization.
- A later reply indicates that in the case discussed, the magnetic field component is parallel to the plane of incidence, which affects the boundary condition equations and the relationships between incident, reflected, and transmitted amplitudes/intensities.
- One participant emphasizes that the usual definition of polarization direction pertains to the E vector, stating that if the magnetic field is parallel to the plane of incidence, it is typically referred to as perpendicular polarization. They mention the "Fresnel relations" as relevant to the discussion, noting that these relationships differ for the two polarization directions.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the definition and implications of polarization in relation to the plane of incidence, indicating that multiple competing interpretations exist without a clear consensus.
Contextual Notes
There are unresolved aspects regarding the definitions of polarization and the specific conditions under which the relationships between amplitudes/intensities apply, as well as the implications of the magnetic field's orientation.