When Do Poynting Vector and Energy Propagation Differ in Electromagnetic Waves?

Thread starter arash1r
Start date Oct 7, 2012
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Direction Poynting vector Vector

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The Poynting vector represents the direction of energy flow in electromagnetic waves, typically aligning with the wave's propagation direction. In standard scenarios, the Poynting vector and energy propagation are in the same direction, indicating energy is moving forward with the wave. However, in certain cases involving metamaterials, unusual properties can cause the Poynting vector to point in a different direction than the wave propagation. This divergence can lead to complex behaviors in energy transfer and wave dynamics. Understanding these interactions is crucial for applications in advanced materials and wave manipulation.

Oct 7, 2012

arash1r

I have a question: when the poynting vector and energy propagation in electromagnetic waves are in the same direction and when are in different direction?

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Oct 7, 2012

mfb

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The Poynting vector is the direction of energy flow, I don't see how it could point in the opposite direction. Maybe metamaterials have some strange properties here.

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