What is meant by "low frequencies"? (EM skin depth question)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the concept of "very low frequencies" in the context of skin depth in conductors, specifically referencing the formula for skin depth δ as δ=1/α=√(λ₀/cπσμ₀) from Fowles' Optics. The skin depth of copper, with a conductivity σ of 5.8×10⁷ mho/m, is calculated for 1mm microwaves, yielding a skin depth of approximately 10⁻⁴ mm. The participants seek to clarify the threshold for categorizing frequencies as "very low" and suggest comparing this to the plasma frequency for better understanding.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of complex wave numbers and indices of refraction
  • Familiarity with skin depth calculations in conductors
  • Knowledge of microwave frequency ranges and their implications
  • Basic concepts of plasma frequency and its relevance to electromagnetic theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between skin depth and frequency in conductors
  • Study the concept of plasma frequency and its significance in electromagnetism
  • Examine the effects of different materials on skin depth at various frequencies
  • Explore advanced topics in electromagnetic wave propagation in conductive materials
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electrical engineers, physicists, and students studying electromagnetism, particularly those interested in the behavior of conductors at varying frequencies.

cozycoz
I'm studying conductors, where complex wave number ##K=k+iα## and complex index of refraction ##N=n+iκ## is introduced. My textbook(Fowles Optics) says that for "very low frequencies", skin depth δ is equal to ##δ=\frac{1}{α}=\sqrt{\frac{λ_0}{cπσμ_0}}##.
What is "very low frequency"? How much low does the frequency need to be to be labled "very low"?
In an example, the author said that the skin depth of copper(##σ=5.8×10^7##mho/m) for 1mm microwaves is about ##10^{-4}##mm. 1mm wavelength is equal to about ##10^{12}## angular frequency. Is this "very low"? How can I determine?
 
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Compare it to the plasma frequency.
 
It's always worth a quick google. If the Wikipedia article on the skin effect is to be believed, the skin depth is your approximate formula multiplied by ##\sqrt {\sqrt {1+(\rho\omega\epsilon)^2}+\rho\omega \epsilon }##. Check the references, obviously, but the necessary approximation is obvious.
 
mfb said:
Compare it to the plasma frequency.
Thanks...!
 

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