Basic Physics of

Communication UNIT 3 ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVE

PROPAGATION THEORY
Structure
3.1 Introduction
Objectives
3.2 Review of Maxwell’s Equations
Gauss’s Law for Electric Field
Gauss’s Law for Magnetic Field
Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction
Generalised Ampere’s Law
3.3 Wave Equation
Plane Waves
Plane Waves in Dielectrics and Conductors
Boundary Conditions
Poynting’s Theorem
3.4 Surface Waves
3.5 Waveguides
3.6 Review of Antennae
Vector Potential and Radiation Fields due to Small Dipole
Radiation Pattern
Antenna Array
3.7 Summary
3.8 Terminal Questions
3.9 Solutions and Answers

3.1 INTRODUCTION
In communication systems, we use different ways to transport the electrical signal
from the transmitter to the receiver. It can be sent over a metal conductor in the form
of a voltage or current signal or transmitted through air in the form of electromagnetic
radiation or could be converted into a light signal and sent through an optical fibre.
Whatever be the mode of transport, the transmission of signal through all these media
is governed by the classical theories of electromagnetic wave propagation. You have
already learnt the basic electromagnetic theory in the course on Electric and Magnetic
Phenomena (PHE-07). We would suggest that you go through Units 13, 14 and 15 of
that course before you start studying this unit.

The physics of electromagnetic signal propagation, their radiation, absorption, etc. are
contained in the four Maxwell’s equations. You know that these equations represent
four fundamental laws of electrodynamics. You have also learnt that the Coulomb’s
law and Ampere’s law do not hold for time varying fields. This is because, the action
at a distance is delayed in time from the cause producing it. For instance, a conductor
carrying time varying current produces time varying magnetic field. However, the
change in magnetic field due to change in current is not felt instantaneously in the
entire space. In the neighbourhood of the wire it is felt early while at farther distances
it is felt later. Further, the time varying magnetic fields produce electric fields. Thus, a
wire carrying oscillatory (ac) current produces oscillatory electric and magnetic fields
that propagate radially outward. These propagating fields are called electromagnetic
waves. They carry momentum, energy and information from the current carrying wire
called antenna to the receiver. You will be learning about these concepts in this unit.

In Sec. 3.2 we shall take a brief review of the basic concepts in electromagnetism, viz.
Maxwell’s equations. In Sec. 3.3 we shall discuss the wave equation that governs the
propagation of electromagnetic waves. Transmission of signal at lower frequencies
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can take place by surface waves. We discuss the surface wave propagation in Electromagnetic Wave
Sec. 3.4. At microwave frequencies, the signal is transmitted in the form of Propagation Theory
electromagnetic radiation through a hallow metallic conductor, which guides the wave
to the destination. This is called waveguide. In Sec. 3.5 you will learn about the basic
construction of waveguides. In all forms of transmission occurring via
electromagnetic radiation, the most important component on the transmitter and
receiver side is the antenna. The shape and size of antenna decides the directionality
and range of signal transmission. In Sec. 3.6 we take a brief review of antennae.

Objectives

After studying this unit, you should be able to:

• state and explain Maxwell’s equations of electromagnetism;

• find the plane wave solution of the wave equation;
• describe propagation of electromagnetic waves through conductor and dielectric;
• explain the concept of waveguides;
• describe the working of antenna;
• explain the radiation pattern of antenna; and
• state characteristics of antenna array.

3.2 REVIEW OF MAXWELL’S EQUATIONS

Maxwell generalised the laws of electrodynamics to time varying fields and put them
in compact mathematical form, known as Maxwell’s equations. These equations are
relativistically covariant, i.e., they retain their form in every inertial frame of
reference. In fact, it is these equations, besides Michelson Morley experiment, that led
Einstein to establish that the speed of light in vacuum is the same in all inertial frames
of reference. All electric and magnetic fields, irrespective of how they are produced,
must satisfy Maxwell’s equations. These equations represent four fundamental laws of
electrodynamics. Before entering into a discussion of these equations let us
recapitulate the definitions of some physical quantities.

Electric Field E: If we place a small charge q at a point and it generates a force F,

then F/q, i.e., the force per unit charge is called the electric field E at that point. In
general, it is a function of position and time. The electric field is produced by charges
and also by time varying magnetic fields.

Magnetic Field B: If we bring in a moving charge in a region and it experiences a

force by virtue of its charge and motion, then we say that a magnetic field B exists in
that region. The force experienced by a particle of charge q moving with velocity v is
related to magnetic field B through the relation:

F = qv × B. (3.1)

The force depends on the direction of motion of the particle (v). The force is
maximum when the direction of motion and direction of magnetic field are
perpendicular to each other. In such a case, the magnitude of magnetic field equals
the ratio of maximum force and the product of charge and particle velocity. Magnetic
field is produced by electric current and also by time varying electric field,
constituting a displacement current.

Charge Density ρ: The electrical charge per unit volume is called charge density
ρ(r,t).

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Basic Physics of Current Density J: The charge crossing per unit area (placed perpendicular to the
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direction of flow) per second is called current density. If there is the flow of current I
in a conductor of cross-sectional area A, then J = (I/A) î , where î is the unit vector in
the direction of current flow.

Polarisation P: Consider an atom with many electrons revolving round the nucleus.
The total negative charge of electrons equals the positive charge of the nucleus. In the
absence of external electric field, the centre of negative charge cloud coincides with
the nucleus. When we apply an electric field on the atom, the electron cloud gets
shifted. The cloud of outermost orbiting electrons undergoes maximum displacement.
Let the charge of this cloud be −q and the displacement of its centre with respect to
nucleus be d, then −qd is the dipole moment of the atom. If there are many atoms in
the system, then the vector sum of dipole moments due to all the atoms in a small
volume ∆V divided by ∆V, (i.e, the dipole moment per unit volume) is called
polarisation P (r, t).

Magnetisation M: A current carrying small loop is called a magnetic dipole. An

electron revolving round a nucleus is also like a current loop, and behaves like a
magnetic dipole. The product of current in the loop and the area of the loop is called
the dipole moment of the loop or of an atom. Magnetic dipole moment per unit
volume is called magnetisation.

Displacement Vector D: Two physical quantities described above, viz. electric field
E and polarisation P combinedly define the displacement vector D by the relation:
D = ε0 E + P, where ε0 = (10−9/36π) in MKS units, is the free space permittivity.

∫
Electric Flux D.ds : Consider a small surface area ds at point r. On multiplying it
with the component of displacement vector D(r) normal to the surface, we obtain
D.ds, called electric flux linked with that surface element. Integrating it over the entire
surface gives the total flux linked with the surface.

∫
Magnetic Flux B.ds : B.ds is the magnetic flux linked with surface element ds.

∫
When integrated over the entire area of a surface, B. ds is called the magnetic flux
linked with the surface.

Now we shall discuss the fundamental laws of electrodynamics.

3.2.1 Gauss’s Law for Electric Field

The first law of electrodynamics states that the total outward normal electric flux
through any closed surface is equal to the total charge enclosed inside the surface as
shown in Fig. 3.1. Mathematically, we can write it as
Fig. 3.1: A Gaussian surface
with charges enclosed
∫ D.ds = ∫ ρdV
S V
(3.2)

With Gauss’s theorem we can

convert a surface integral into where D = ε0 E + P, is the displacement vector, E is the electric field vector, P is the
volume integral as polarisation, ρ is the charge density and V represents the volume enclosed by the
closed surface S. Using Gauss’s theorem, the surface integral can be converted to
∫ D.ds = ∫ (∇.D) dV
S V
volume integral, leading to

∇.D = ρ (3.2a)

This is Maxwell’s first equation. It is valid for all static and time varying fields.
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3.2.2 Gauss’s Law for Magnetic Field Electromagnetic Wave
Propagation Theory
The second law states that the total outward normal magnetic flux through any closed
surface as shown in Fig. 3.2 is zero. This is because of the fact that, in magnets, there
are no monopoles. We can write it as:

∫ B.ds = 0 (3.3)
s
B

where B denotes magnetic flux density. Applying Gauss’s theorem, the equation is
reduced to:
c

∇.B = 0 (3.3a)

3.2.3 Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction Fig. 3.2: Closed path

∫
Consider any closed current carrying path. The line integral E.dl along the path is
known as the electromotive force (emf). Faraday’s law states that the emf induced in
With Stoke’s theorem we
any closed path equals the time rate of change of magnetic flux through the area convert line integral into
enclosed by the path. We can consider the area to be any surface s having the closed surface integral as
path c as its open boundary. The law can be mathematically expressed as:
∫ E.dl = ∫ (∇ × E) .ds
c s
∂
∫ E.dl = −
∂t∫B.ds (3.4)
c s
The negative sign arises due to the fact that the emf induced by the change of
magnetic flux is such that the current produced by it opposes the change in the
magnetic flux. This is known as Lenz’s law. Using Stoke’s theorem, the line integral
can be converted into a surface integral leading to

∂B
∇×E= − (3.4a)
∂t

3.2.4 Generalised Ampere’s Law

J
The Ampere’s Law states that for the time independent magnetic fields, the line
integral of magnetic intensity H (called magnetomotive force, mmf) along any path
equals the current passing through any area enclosed by the path, as shown in Fig. 3.3.
That is

∫ H.dl = ∫ J.ds (3.5) Fig. 3.3: Ampere’s loop

c s
where J is the electric current density due to free charge carriers, and H is related to
magnetic field B as B = µ0H + M where M is the magnetisation. In free space and
non-magnetic materials, M = 0 and B = µ0H. Using Stoke’s theorem, the line integral
can be replaced by surface integral leading to Ampere's law C

∇× H = J (3.5a)

Maxwell realized that for time varying currents, the Ampere’s law is not compatible ()
with the equation of continuity given by: R V Key

∂ρ
+ ∇.J = 0 (3.6) Fig.3.4: Charge accumulates
∂t on the capacitor plates during
From the Ampere’s Law the charging of capacitor

∇ . J = ∇ . (∇ × H ) = 0. (3.7)
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Basic Physics of Hence the continuity equation would give (∂ρ/ ∂t) = 0, i.e., accumulation or
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rarefaction of charges is never possible. This is against our day-to-day experience
where we observe that charge density changes with time. Charging of capacitor is the
most common example of charge accumulation with time (Refer to Fig 3.4).

Thus Ampere’s Law is valid only for time independent fields. Maxwell generalised it
by adding another term, Jd to Eq. (3.5a). Then it can be written as:
∇ × H = J + Jd .
(3.8)
Substituting this in Eq. (3.7), we have ∇.J = − ∇.Jd. Using the equation of continuity
(3.6) and the Maxwell’s first equation (3.2a) we get

∂ρ  ∂D 
∇. J d = = ∇.  
 (3.9)
∂t  ∂t 
leading to Jd = ∂D/∂t This is known as the displacement current density. The
generalised Ampere’s law can thus be written as
∂D
∇×H = J + . (3.10)
∂t
You should note that just as current density J is the source to produce magnetic field,
the displacement current is also a source to produce magnetic field. In vacuum there
are no charges, hence J = 0, and the magnetic field of an electromagnetic wave is
produced by the displacement current.

We summarise below Maxwell’s four equations:

∇.D=ρ (3.11a)
∇.B = 0 (3.11b)
∂B
∇×E = − (3.11c)
∂t
∂D
∇×H = J + (3.11d)
∂t

Value of some constants: The Maxwell’s equations are to be supplemented by the constituent relations, relating
1 J, P and M with E and B. In general J, P and M at time t depend on E and B at all
ε0 = sΩ −1m −1
4π × 9 × 109 times preceding t. However, for harmonic fields with time dependence of the form
µ 0 = 4π × 10−7 Ω s m −1 . e−jωt, it is always possible to write
(µ 0 / ε0 )1 / 2 = 3 × 40π
= 376.73Ω
J=σE
P = χE
M = χM H
D = ε0 εr E
B = µ0 µr H

where σ is the electrical conductivity, χ is the electric susceptibility, χM is the

magnetic permeability. εr = 1+ (χ/ ε0) is the relative permittivity and µr=1+ (χM/ µ0) is
the relative permeability. For non-magnetic materials µr=1. In the following
discussion we shall assume µr=1 unless stated otherwise.

Spend SAQ 1
5 Min.
A sphere of radius r0 and relative permittivity εr has charge distribution with charge
density ρ = ρ 0 (1 − r 2 / r02 ) . Obtain the electric field at r < r0 and r > r0.

After recapitulating the basic concepts let us now discuss about the wave equation.
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 Electromagnetic Wave
3.3 WAVE EQUATION Propagation Theory

Using the constituent relations D = ε0εrE, B = µ0µrH and J = σE, the third and fourth
Maxwell’s equations (Eqs. (3.11c) & (3.11d)) can be written as
∂
∇ × E = − µ0 H,
∂t
∂
and ∇ × H = σ E + ε0 εr E.
∂t

Taking curl of the first equation and using the second, in conjunction with vector
identity ∇ × ∇ × E = − ∇ 2 E + ∇ (∇ . E ) , we obtain the wave equation in the uniform
medium

εr ∂2 E σ ∂E
∇ 2 E − ∇ (∇ .E ) − 2 2
− =0 (3.12)
c ∂t ε 0 c 2 ∂t

where c = (µ0ε0)-1/2. For harmonic time dependent fields, of the type e−jωt, we may
replace (∂E/∂t) by – jωE and Eq. (3.12) can be written as Here we have assumed εr
to be real quantity.
However, this quantity in
ω2
∇ 2 E − ∇ (∇ . E ) + ε eff E = 0 (3.13) practical dielectrics
c2 comprises real and
imaginary parts−the
jσ
where ε eff = ε r + (3.14) imaginary part contributing
ε0 ω to the dielectric losses.

εeff is the effective relative permittivity of the medium. If we multiply Eq (3.13) by

(∇.), the first two terms on the left cancel each other, giving εeff ∇.E = 0. For arbitrary
εeff, this gives ∇.E = 0. Then the wave equation takes the form

ω2
∇2 E + ε eff E = 0 (3.15)
c2

From Eq. (3.14) you must have noted that the effective relative permittivity depends
on the conductivity. For understanding the physical significance of this parameter, let
us drive an expression for conductivity σ. Consider a conducting medium with free
electron density n0. When it is subjected to an electric field E = A exp (−jωt), the free
electrons acquire a drift velocity v, governed by the momentum balance equation:
dv
m = −eE − νmv (3.16)
dt
where −e and m are the electronic charge and mass, ν is the number of collisions an
electron suffers per unit time with heavy particles or phonons. In a collision an
electron loses an average momentum mv. Hence in ν collisions, it loses mvν
momentum given by the second term of Eq. (3.16). In the steady state, v varies in the
same way as E, i.e., we can take v = A1 exp (−jωt). Substituting this in Eq. (3.16) we
get Unit Area

eE
v=− (3.17) v
m(ν − jω) v

Now consider a fictitious unit area placed perpendicular to v as shown in Fig. 3.5. We Fig.3.5: Current density
calculation
may visualise a cylinder of length v behind this area. This cylinder has volume (v × 1)
and contains n0v electrons. In one second all these electrons cross the unit area
carrying a charge −n0ve. Thus the current density is
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Basic Physics of J = − n0 ev (3.18)
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2
n0 e E
= = σE (3.19)
m(ν − jω)
n0 e 2
with σ= (3.20)
m (ν − jω)

In a conductor or semiconductor ν ~ 1012 s−1, hence for microwave and lower

frequencies ω << ν and σ is nearly real. At optical frequencies (ω >> ν), σ is largely
imaginary, signifying that current density is π/2 radians out of phase with the electric
field. Using this expression for σ in Eq. 3.14, we may write effective relative
permittivity as
ω 2p
ε eff = ε r − 2 (3.21)
ω (1 + jν/ω)

where ωp = (n0 e 2 / mε 0 )1 / 2 . (3.22)

ωp is called the plasma frequency. It depends only on the total number of carriers.

ν
In general, εeff is complex. For << 1 , we can write
ω
ω 2p
ε eff = ε r − . (3.23)
ω2

You must have noticed that the value of εeff decreases with ω.

You may now like to attempt the following SAQ.

Spend SAQ 2
3 Min.
In the presence of an electric field of frequency ω = 1013 rad s−1 inside a conductor,
the induced current density is π/3 out of phase with electric field. Estimate the
collision frequency.

Before proceeding further, let us discuss the physical nature of plane waves.

3.3.1 Plane Waves

Consider an ideal source that emits an electromagnetic wave along +x direction. Let
the electric field produced by the source at x = 0 (in the entire yz-plane) be

E( x = 0, t ) = A cos ωt (3.24)

and E( x, t ) = E( x = 0, t − x / v) = A cos ω(t − x / v)

or E( x, t ) = A cos (ωt − kx) (3.25)

x=x
where A is the amplitude, ω is the frequency, ωt is the phase, of the field and v is the
x=0
velocity of wave propagation. The field at x at time t is the same as that it was at x = 0
Fig. 3.6: Wave propagation at a previous time (t − x/v), since the field take x/v time to travel from x = 0 to x. You
in + x direction
know that in this equation, k = ω/v is called the wave number and the argument of
cos function (ωt − kx) is called the phase of the wave. At any time t, the phase is
constant over the plane with constant x, i.e., over the entire yz-plane. The plane of

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constant phase is called a wavefront. The wave travels perpendicular to the Electromagnetic Wave
wavefront. Propagation Theory

For a plane wave propagating along an arbitrary direction n̂ ( n̂ is an unit vector) the
wavefront would be a plane perpendicular to n̂ .

Fig. 3.7: Plane wavefront

Refer to Fig.3.7. The field at Q (r, t) is same as at point M at time t (since both Q and
M are on the same wavefront). This field is same as that was at the origin O at time
 OM 
t − .
 v 
 OM 
E(r, t ) = A cos ω  t − 
 v 
= A cos (ωt − k.r ) (3.26)

A more convenient representation of an electromagnetic wave is

E(r, t ) = A e − j (ωt −k.r ) (3.27)

where real part of the right hand side is implied. The amplitude and frequency of the
waves are determined by the sources producing them, whereas velocity of wave
propagation is determined by the properties of the medium through which they
propagate.

To understand the effects of material properties on wave propagation let us now

consider the propagation of waves in dielectric and conducting materials.

3.3.2 Plane Waves in Dielectrics and Conductors

The wave field is given by Eq. (3.27). By partially differentiating this equation we get:
∂E ∂ 2E
= jk x E and, = − k x2 E
∂x ∂x 2
Similarly working out the partial derivatives for y and z components and using
Eq. (3.15) we get:
ω2
k 2 = 2 ε eff . (3.28)
c
This is known as the dispersion relation.
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Basic Physics of The phase velocity of the wave is
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ω c
vph = = (3.29)
k η
where

η = ε eff is the refractive index of the medium.

Now we can obtain more insight into the nature of electromagnetic waves from
Maxwell’s equations. Since B, H, D and J in the steady state have same (r, t)
dependence as E, we can replace the ∂ / ∂t and ∇ operators operating on these
quantities by − jω and jk respectively. Then from Eq (3.11c) and (3.11d) we get

k × E = ωµ 0 H,
k × H = −ωε 0 ε eff E. (3.30)
Pre-multiplying these equations by k we get

k.E = 0,
and k.H = 0

These relations imply that the electric and magnetic fields are transverse to the
direction of wave propagation k. Further, from Eq (3.30), we can conclude that E is
perpendicular to H. Thus E, H and k are mutually orthogonal.

The ratio Z = (E/H) is known as the impedance of the medium. From Eq. (3.30) we
get that, Z = Z0/η, where Z0 = (µ0/ε0)1/2 = 377 ohm is the free space impedance.

To apply the concepts learnt so for, you may now like to answer the following SAQ.

Spend SAQ 3
4 Min.  ω ω 
− j  ωt − 2 x − y 
c c 
An electromagnetic wave has electric field E = A e  . Obtain the
propagation vector, wavelength and phase velocity of the wave.

After considering the basics of propagation, let us now discuss the wave propagation
in dielectric medium.

Wave Propagation in Dielectrics

In a pure dielectric, the electric conductivity σ = 0 and η = ε1r / 2 . Since the refractive
ω2
2
k = 2 εeff index is greater than 1 (εr >1), the wave travels with a lower velocity than the velocity
c
ω 2 of light in vacuum. At radio wave and microwave frequencies (ω / 2π ≤ 30 GHz ) , εr in
kr2 − ki2 + j 2k r ki = 2 ( ε′ + jε′′)
c most dielectrics, is independent of wave frequency, i.e., there is no dispersion in them.
ω2
kr2 − ki2 = ε′
c2 However, εr has finite imaginary part ε = ε ′ + jε ′′ in lossy dielectrics. It simply implies
ω 2 that the displacement vector D is not in phase with electric field E. In this case, k is
and 2k r ki = ε′′
c2 complex and wave suffers damping as it propagates through the dielectrics. If we
For ε′′ << ε′, ki << kr substitute k = kr + jki in Eq. (3.28) and separate real and imaginary parts, then in the
ω 1/ 2 limit of ε ′′ << ε ′ we get
hence, kr = ε′
c ω 1/ 2 ω ε ′′
ω2 ε′′ ω ε′′ kr = ε ′ , and k i = . (3.31)
and ki = 2 = c c 2ε ′1 / 2
c 2kr c 2ε′1 / 2
k i−1 is known as the attenuation length.

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At optical frequencies, ε r depends on the frequency of the wave, hence dielectric Electromagnetic Wave
behaves as a dispersive medium. Glass, for instance, has a different refractive index Propagation Theory
for different colours of light in the visible region and is a dispersive medium. The
propagation of signals of finite frequency width in such media leads to distortion of
signals as different frequency components travel with different velocities.

Wave Propagation in Conductors

In a conductor, electrical conductivity, σ given by Eq.(3.20), plays an important role
in wave propagation.

ne 2 (ν + jω)
σ= (3.32)
m (ν2 + ω 2 )

Typically n ~ 1028 m−3 and ν ~ 1012 s−1 in a conductor.

Using this expression for σ in Eq (3.14), and substituting in Eq (3.28) we get

ω2 ω 2 (1 − jν / ω) 
k2 = ε − p  (3.33)
 r
c2 ω 2
+ ν 2 
 
2 1/ 2
where ω p = (ne / mε 0 ) is the plasma frequency.

At microwave and radio wave frequencies (i.e. ω/2π ≤ 30 GHz)

ω2 << ν 2, and ω 2p >> ωνε r

Hence, the imaginary and real parts of k are equal and the wave is strongly damped.
This can be expressed as:

ω p  ω 1 / 2
k = k r + jk i , with k r = k i ≅   . (3.34)
c  2ν 
k i−1 is known as the skin depth and is denoted by a symbol δ. It scales as ω−1/2, i.e., as
the frequency increases, the waves tend to travel only in the area near to the surface of
the conductor. Typically, for copper δ ~ 0.85 cm for 50 Hz while for 100 MHz, it
reduces to 0.7 × 10 −3 cm.

At optical frequencies, ω >> ν

1

ω  ω 2p 2
Hence, k~ ε r − 2 (1 − jν / ω)  (3.35)
c  ω 

In the first approximation we can take ν/ω = 0. Then the wave propagates (i.e. k is
real) only when ω > (ω p / ε1r / 2 ) .

For ω < (ω p / ε1r / 2 ) , k is imaginary and there is no propagation of wave. This limiting
frequency, (ω p / ε1r / 2 ) is called the plasma edge. For good conductors plasma edge
frequency falls in the ultra-violet range. This is the reason why visible and shorter
frequencies do not propagate through the conductors.

For ω > ω p / ε1r / 2 , k can be written as k = kr + jki, with

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Basic Physics of 1/ 2
Communication ω ω 2p 
kr ≈  εr − 2  ,
c  ω 
ω 2p v
and ki ≈ 2 . (3.36)
2c ωk r

This treatment is also valid in ionised media (knows as plasma) with εr =1.

You may now like to solve the following SAQ.

Spend SAQ 4
4 Min.
In the ionosphere (earth’s atmosphere above 90 km from the earth’s surface) electron
density has a peak value of n = 1012 m−3. Estimate the lowest radio wave frequency
that can propagate through it. Ignore collisions.

3.3.3 Boundary Conditions

At a boundary between the two media, µ, ε and σ change suddenly, hence it is
important to find relation between the fields on the two sides of the boundary. This
can be done by determining the boundary conditions from Maxwell’s equations.

a. Continuity of tangential component of E

Consider the boundary between two media, I and II at y = 0 (Fig.3.8). Choose a
rectangular path ABCDA of length l and vanishing width b (b → 0). Now let us
∫
evaluate the line integral E.dl.
c

∫ E.dl = E xI l − E xII l.
c

Fig. 3.8: Path of the line integral across the interface y = 0

This must equate the time derivative of the magnetic flux linked with the loop. As the
area of the loop is reduced to zero, the flux linked with it also vanishes, resulting in,

∫ E.dl = 0
c

or ExI = ExII (3.37)

Similarly EzI = EzII at the interface. Thus the tangential component of the electric field
is continuous across the boundary.

In a special case when medium II is a perfect conductor (σ = ∞), the electric field
inside it is zero (otherwise infinite current will flow), hence, the continuity condition
demands that the tangential component of the electric field, E||, in the first medium
must also vanish at the boundary.

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b. Continuity of tangential component of H Electromagnetic Wave
Propagation Theory
Consider the boundary between two media I and II at y = 0 and choose the path
ABCDA across it as shown in Fig.3.8. We evaluate ∫ H.dl along this path.
c
According to generalised Ampere’s law

 ∂D 
∫ H.dl = ∫  J +  . ds
∂t 
c s
In the limit, where width of the path b → 0, the surface integral on the right varnishes,
hence

HxI = HxII (3.38)

Similarly we can show that HzI = HzII. Thus the tangential component of H is
continuous across the boundary.

c. Continuity of normal component of D

Consider a cylinder of cross-section A and vanishing height b (b→0) across the
boundary between two media as shown in Fig.3.9.

Fig. 3.9: A cylindrical Gaussian surface across the boundary between two media

We evaluate the surface integral ∫ D.ds over that closed surface

s

∫ D.ds = D yI A − D yII A
s
According to Gauess’s law this must be equal to the charge enclosed within the
cylinder. In the case of a dielectric, there is no charge enclosed, hence
DyI = DyII (3.39)
That is, the normal component of the displacement vector is continuous across the
boundary. In a special case when medium II is a conductor, finite surface charge
density ρs is possible. In that case, the charge enclosed inside the Gaussian surface is
ρs A, hence

DyI − DyII = ρs. (3.40)

d. Continuity of normal component of B

Applying Gauss’s law for the magnetic field, ∫ B.ds = 0, over the surface of Fig.3.9,
s
we obtain
ByI = ByII. (3.41)
This means that, the normal component of magnetic field is continuous across the
boundary.

63
Basic Physics of In essence, the boundary conditions imply the continuity of the components of electric
Communication
and magnetic field parallel to the interface (E||and H||) and the components of D and B
normal to the interface (D⊥ and B⊥).

3.3.4 Poynting’s Theorem

The electric and magnetic fields are produced by the charge and current distributions.
In order to establish the fields, it is necessary to establish certain charge distributions.
The work done in doing so can be viewed as the energy stored in the electric and
magnetic fields. In the Course on Electric and Magnetic Phenomena, (PHE-07) you
have learnt that the energy stored in the electric field per unit volume is

E.D
WE = (3.42)
2

while that in the magnetic field per unit volume is

B.H
WB = (3.43)
2

Using the Maxwell’s equations, we can investigate how the energy flows from one
region of space to another when fields vary with time.
From the generalised Ampere’s law we have

∂D
J =∇×H − .
∂t
∂B ∂D
H.∇ × E = −H. Hence J .E = E.∇ × H − E. . (3.44)
∂t ∂t
∂
= H. µ0 H
Using vector identity and third Maxwell’s equation we can write
∂t
1 ∂
(H.H ) 1 ∂
= −µ 0
2 ∂t
E . ∇ × H = ∇ . (E × H ) + H . ∇ × E = ∇ . (E × H ) − (B . H )
2 ∂t
∂ B.H ∂
=−
∂t 2 J . E = ∇ . (E × H ) − (W E + W B )
∂
∂t
= − WB Hence, ∂ WEB
∂t Hence, + J . E = ∇. (E × H) (3.45)
∂t

where W EB = (W E + W B ). We can interpret the left hand side as the sum of the rate
of increase of field energy density and the energy absorbed per unit volume per
second. Hence the right hand side must represent energy entering in the unit volume
per second. Thus, from the definition of divergence, E × H represents the energy
flow density, i.e., the amount of electromagnetic energy flowing per unit area per unit
time. We can define this by a vector known as the Poynting's vector.

S = E×H (3.46)

In case of plane monochromatic waves, E and H are written in complex

representations as:

E = A 0 exp[− j (ωt − k.r )]

and H = k × E / ωµ (3.47)

Here, you must remember that S is the vector product of real part of E (that is the
actual value of E) and the real part of H since it is a product of real energy transfers.

64
 Electromagnetic Wave
i.e. S = Re E × Re H Propagation Theory
1
[
= Re E × H + E * × H
2
] (3.48)
You know the vector
identity:
where * denotes complex conjugate.
Re A × Re B
1
[
= Re A × B + A* × B ]
S=
1
2ωµ
[
Re E × (k × E) + E * × (k × E) ] 2

Using vector triple product identity we get A × (B × C ) = B (A.C ) − C (A.B )

S=
1
2ωµ
[
Re k (E.E) + k.(E.E * ) ]
where Re denotes the real part of the quantity.

Substituting values of E and H and remembering the fact that for electromagnetic
waves k.E = 0 we get

S=
1
2µω
[ *
Re k A02 e − 2 j (ωt − jk . r ) + k A02 e − j (k −k ) . r ] (3.49)

The time average of the first term over a wave period is zero. Further A = A0 e − k r x is
the amplitude of the wave, hence
A2
S av = kr (3.50)
2µω
where kr is the real part of k.

Now you may attempt the following SAQ.

SAQ 5 Spend
 ω ω  3 Min.
− j  ωt − 2 x + z 
An electromagnetic wave is expressed as E = ŷ Ae  c c 
. Obtain the time
average Poynting's vector.

An important mode of electromagnetic wave transmission is along the boundary of

two media. These are called surface waves. You will learn about these waves in the
next section.

3.4 SURFACE WAVES

A surface wave is a guided electromagnetic wave that propagates along the boundary
between a conductor and a dielectric (or conductor and free space). Its amplitude is
maximum on the boundary and falls off away from it in either medium. Medium
frequency radio waves (300 kHz < ω/2π< 3 MHz) propagate as surface waves along
the surface of the earth with earth acting as a conducting medium. In the course of
their propagation, surface waves suffer attenuation. For short waves and shorter
wavelengths, the attenuation rate is larger.

Consider a conductor−free space interface at y = 0 as shown in Fig. 3.10. The

conductor (y<0) is characterized by effective permittivity ε eff , whereas free space
65
Basic Physics of (y > 0) has effective permittivity of unity. A surface wave of frequency ω propagates
Communication
along x axis. The x and t dependence of the fields can be written as

E = A( y )e − j (ωt −k x x ) (3.51)

Here we assume that there is no variation along z.

Free space ( 0)
y=0
y

Conductor ( eff )
x
0

Fig. 3.10: Surface wave propagation

We consider E = E x xˆ + E y yˆ . We solve the wave equation for Ex in the two media,

and apply the continuity of Ex and Hz across y = 0 to obtain the dispersion relation.

The wave equation governing the fields in two media can be written as (cf. Eq. 3.15)
ω2
∇ 2 E + 2 ε ′eff E = 0
c
∂
where ε ′eff = ε eff inside conductor and ε ′eff = 1 in free space. Using = jk x to write
∂x
∂2
∇ 2 = 2 − k x2 , we obtain for Ex
∂y
∂ 2 Ex
2
− α2 Ex = 0 (3.52)
∂y

ω2
where α 2 = α12 ≡ k x2 − for y > 0 (3.53a)
c2
2 2 2
ω 2 ε eff
and α = α2 ≡ kx − for y < 0. (3.53b)
c2
The well behaved solutions of Eq. (3.52) that vanish at y → − ∞ and y → ∞ are

E x = Ae −α1 y e − j (ωt −k x x ) for x > 0 (3.54a)

and Ex = A′e α 2 y e − j (ωt −k x x ) for x < 0 (3.54b)

Demanding the continuity of Ex at y = 0 we get A′ = A.

Using these equations, we obtain

 jk  −α1 y − j (ωt − k x x )
E y =  x  Ae e for y > 0 (3.55a)
 α1 

 jk  α 2 y − j (ωt − k x x )
and Ey = − x  Ae e for y < 0 (3.55b)
 α2 

66
Substituting for Ex and Ey we get the magnetic field of the wave Electromagnetic Wave
Propagation Theory

 ω  −α1 y − j (ωt − k x x )
H z = j  2  Ae
 e for y > 0 (3.56a)
 c µ α
0 1 

 ωε eff  − α 2 y − j ( ωt − k x x )
and Hz = − j  2  Ae
 e for y < 0 (3.56b)
 c µ 0α 2 
Applying the continuity of Hz at y = 0 we get, 1 / α 1 = −ε eff / α 2 or
ω 2 ε eff
k x2 = (3.57)
c 2 1 + ε eff

This is the dispersion relation for surface wave. At radio wave frequencies σ is real
σ
(≈ n0e2/mν), σ/ωε0 >>1 and εeff ≈ j ε0.
ω
ω2
Hence k x2 ≈ (1 + jωε 0 / σ)
c2
ω ω2 ε 0
or kx = + j (3.58)
c 2σc
kx has a large real part, giving phase velocity of the surface wave vph = ω / k x ~ c.
The imaginary part of kx gives the attenuation rate of the wave in course of its
propagation. It scales as ω2, i.e., the higher frequency waves are attenuated more. The
quantities characterizing the decay rates of wave amplitudes in the two media, α1, α2,
are
α1 = α1r + jα1i, (3.59a)
α2 = α2r − jα2i, (3.59b)
1/ 2
ω  ωε 0 
where α1r = α1i =   (3.59c)
c  2σ 
1/ 2
ω σ 
and α 2 r = α 2i =   (3.59d)
c  2ωε 0 

The characteristic distances, over which field amplitudes fall off from the interface in
the free space and in the conductor are α1−r1 and α −2 1r respectively. Since α 2 r >> α 1r ,
the surface wave field is strongly localized in the conductor within a skin layer of
width ~ α −2 1r ; whereas it extends to a larger width (~ α1−r1 ) in free space as shown in
Fig. 3.11. α 2 r is the same as ki in Eq 3.34 at ω<<ν.

Fig. 3.11: Surface wave attenuation

67
Basic Physics of You may use the above relations for solving the following SAQ.
Communication

Spend SAQ 6
5 Min.
A surface wave of ω = 2 × 1015 rad s−1 propagates over a metal-free space interface.
The metal has εr = 10, ωp = 8 × 1015 radians. Estimate the wavelength of the surface
wave. If the wave amplitude on the surface is 104 Vm−1, estimate its value at a depth
of 0.1 µm inside the metal. Ignore collisions.

After learning about the propagation of surface wave at the boundary of the two
media, let us discuss about a very important mode of guided wave transmission at
microwave frequencies. Here, the hollow metallic conductors called waveguides are
used.

3.5 WAVEGUIDES
A waveguide is a hollow metallic pipe through which an electromagnetic wave can
propagate without spreading, i.e,. without diffraction divergence. The waveguide
could have rectangular cross-section or a circular cross-section, accordingly it is
called rectangular waveguide or a cylindrical waveguide. These are shown in
Fig. 3.12. The axis of a waveguide is usually denoted by z-axis. The reflecting
metallic walls of the waveguide provide confinement to electromagnetic waves in
x-y or r-θ directions. This may be understood as follows.

An electromagnetic wave propagating through a waveguide must have electric and

magnetic field distribution such that the tangential components of electric field at all
the metallic walls vanish. This is true if we assume that the walls are ideal, having
infinite conductivity. Consider, for instance, the propagation of an electromagnetic
wave of frequency ω in a rectangular waveguide of inner widths a and b along x̂ and
ŷ directions respectively and axis along ẑ . Let the electric field of the wave be
parallel to y-axis (E || ŷ ). Since it is a propagating disturbance along ẑ , it may be
written as
Ey = A e−j(ωt−kz). (3.60)

Fig. 3.12: a) A rectangular waveguide of dimensions a and b in x and y directions;

and b) A cylindrical waveguide of radius a

Since Ey the tangential component of electric field at metallic walls, it is expected to

vanish at wall boundaries x = 0 and x = a. But if A, the amplitude of Ey, were
independent of x, then Ey will not vanish. Hence A must be a function of x. It can be a
function of y as well but that is not essential or mandatory. In order to deduce the x
dependence of A, let us go over to the wave equation, which for Ey takes the form:
ω2
∇2Ey + Ey = 0 (3.61)
c2
68
Substituting the expression for Ey from Eq. (3.60) and assuming that A is a function of Electromagnetic Wave
x but it is independent of y and z, we get Propagation Theory

∂2 A
+ α2 A = 0 (3.62)
∂x 2
ω2
where α2 = 2
− k2 (3.63)
c

The general solution of Eq.(6.60) is

A = A1 sin αx + A2 cos αx
The boundary condition at x = 0, A = 0 demands A2 = 0. Another boundary condition
at x = a, A = 0 demand sin (αa) = 0 or

α = nπ/a (3.64)

where n is an integer.

The wave electric field thus can be written as

 nπ  − j (ωt − kz )
E y = A1 sin  xe . (3.65)
 a 

The propagation constant k of the wave, on using the value of α from Eq. (3.64) in
Eq. (3.63) can be written as

ω2 n 2 π 2
k2 = − 2 . (3.66)
c2 a

This equation is the dispersion relation for the waveguide.

You must have noted that the boundary conditions have quantised α, the quantity that
characterises the x variation of the field. For a given value of n, the field has a
specific x variation and a specific k. For another value of n, x variation is different
and so is k. The field structure with a particular value of n is called a mode. Thus the
waveguide has many modes of propagation. The modes that have Ez = 0 are called TE
(Transverse Electric) modes. Two integers subscripts are affixed to TE. For example,
TEnm, n characterising the x variation and m the y variation. In this case there is no y
variation, hence a mode is denoted as TEn0.

For TEn0 mode, the dispersion relation can be written as

n2π2 2
ω2 = 2
c + k 2c2 . (3.67)
a

The minimum value of k2 for a propagating wave is zero, hence the minimum
frequency that can propagate in the TEn0 mode is

nπc
ωn = (3.68)
a

This is called the cut-off frequency. For TE10 mode the cut-off frequency is (π c/a),
for TE20 mode it is (2π c/a) and so on. The cut-off frequency increases with the mode
number.
69
Basic Physics of Note that at a given frequency, different modes have different k, hence different phase
Communication
velocities vph = ω/k. The phase velocity can be written as:

c
v ph = 1/ 2
(3.69)
 ω 2n 
1 − 
 ω2 
 

For a particular mode ωn is fixed but vph is a function of ω. So a waveguide acts as a

dispersive medium. If we transmit an amplitude modulated wave or a pulse,
comprising many frequency components, in a particular mode through the waveguide,
different frequencies will travel with different phase velocities leading to distortion
the signal at the receiver end. For ω >> ωn, the phase velocity approaches c and
dispersion becomes negligible. In Fig. 3.13 we have plotted dispersion relation for
some typical TE modes. The cut off frequencies for higher order modes are higher.
As ω increases, all the modes asymptotically approach the ω = kc line.

Fig. 3.13: Dispersion relations for TE modes

In Fig.3.14 we show the x variation of field for different modes. For the TE10 mode, A
is maximum on waveguide axis and Ey is in same phase over the entire cross-section.
For TE20 mode the field amplitude is zero on waveguide axis and has two maxima at
x = a/4 and 3a/4. The fields for x < a/2 and x > a/2 have a phase difference of π. For
the TE30 mode, the field amplitude has three maxima.

Fig.3.14: Field structure of TE10, TE20 and TE30 modes in a rectangular waveguide

Spend SAQ 7
4 Min.
The electric field of a TE mode in a rectangular waveguide is
π 
E = yˆ A1 sin  x  e − j (ωt − kz ). Obtain the magnetic field.
a 

70
You have found out that for the given TE mode, Hz ≠ 0, i.e., the wave has a magnetic Electromagnetic Wave
field component along z. Similarly, there are other kind of modes for which Hz = 0 Propagation Theory
but EZ ≠ 0. These are called transverse magnetic or TMnm modes.

The above discussion presumed metal walls with infinite conductivity. In real
situation, waveguide wall conductivity is large but finite. Consequently,
electromagnetic fields penetrate within the skin layer causing power dissipation. This
leads to attenuation of the wave as it propagates. The attenuation-constant increases
with frequency, so these waveguides are not suitable for optical communication. We
have to use optical fibres that employ the phenomenon of critical reflection to guide
electromagnetic waves.

An optical fibre comprises a core of refractive index η (~1.5) surrounded by a

cladding of slightly smaller refractive index (η−∆η) as shown in Fig. 3.15. A ray
propagating through the core when hits the core cladding boundary at an angle θ
greater than the critical angle defined by

η − ∆η
θ c = sin −1 , (3.70)
η

it suffers total internal reflection and remains confined in the core. The wave theory
of propagation in optical fibres reveals that a fibres also support many modes of
propagation and each mode suffers from dispersion effects.

Fig. 3.15: Schematic of an optical fibre with a core and cladding. A ray incident on the core-
cladding interface suffers total internal reflection when angle of incidence exceeds the
critical angle

After learning about the guided wave propagation confined by conductor boundaries,
let us now briefly discuss about the transmission through free space with the use of
antennae.

3.6 REVIEW OF ANTENNAE

A current carrying wire produces a magnetic field B in the region surrounding it. If
the current is periodic in time, it will produce a time periodic magnetic field.
According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction (Eq.3.11c), this magnetic
field is accompanied by a time varying electric field E. The Poynting's vector due to
these E and B fields turns out to be finite, pointing away from the wire. Thus a wire
carrying periodic current is a source of electromagnetic radiation. This is shown in
Fig. 3.16a. If the wire were surrounded by a conducting cylinder carrying an equal and
opposite current, like in case of a coaxial cable, there would be no magnetic field
outside the cylinder as shown in Fig.3.16b. Only the exposed portion of the wire not
surrounded by a conducting cylinder is the source of electromagnetic waves. This
exposed portion of the wire is called an antenna.

71
Basic Physics of
Communication

Fig. 3.16: Radiation through current carrier

A simplest antenna is a small length of straight wire with a cut in the middle. In
Fig. 3.17 wire AB is an antenna. It is cut in the middle and points C and D are
connected to inner and outer conductors of a co-axial cable respectively to feed
current from a current source. Such a wire is known as centre-fed dipole antenna. In
this case the circuit is completed through the free space impedance.

An important aspect of the fields produced by an antenna is that the fields produced at
a distance d away from an antenna element at time t depend on the current in the

Fig. 3.17: Antenna

element at time t – (d/c), preceded by the time of propagation of the signal (fields).
Here c is the velocity of light in vacuum.

In the antenna theory, magnetic field can be expressed in terms of a vector potential as
follows.

From Maxwell's second equation, ∇.B = 0 we may write B as a curl of a vector since
divergence of curl of a vector always vanishes.

B =∇× A. (3.71)

In this equation, B is a physical quantity, which could be measured. While A(r, t) is a

suitable mathematical function, to be chosen such that its curl produces the field B. A
is called the vector potential which you have already studied in the PHE-07 Course.

The vector potential A(r,t) due to a static current element (called a dipole) of length
dl and current I located at r = 0 is given by
µ0
A(r )= I dl (3.72)
4πr
72
3.6.1 Vector Potential and Radiation Fields due to a Small Dipole Electromagnetic Wave
Propagation Theory
Consider a small dipole antenna of length ẑ dl, shown in Fig. 3.18, carrying a time
dependent current I = I0 e–jωt and placed at r = 0. The vector potential at (r, t) due to
this antenna is similar to the expression given by Eq. (3.72). However A at r at time t
depends on current in the antenna at an earlier time t− r/c, preceded by the time of
flight r/c. Hence, the vector potential takes the following form:
 ω 
µ I dl − j  ωt − c r
A (r, t ) = zˆ 0 0 e 
. (3.73)
4 πr

Fig. 3.18: Schematic of dipole antenna of length dl parallel to ẑ

The magnetic field, B = ∇ × A is

 ω 
µ I dl  jω 1  − j  ωt − r 
B (r, t ) = 0 0  −  rˆ × zˆ e  c  (3.74)
4πr  c r

where r refers to spherical polar coordinates. B has two terms: the first one, whose
amplitude goes as 1/r is called radiation field which is significant for electric field.
The other with 1/ r2 dependence is called the induction field; it is significant for
magnetic field. At r = c/ω ≈ λ/6 (λ being the wavelength of the wave), the two terms
are of equal magnitude. For r >> c/ω the induction field can be neglected, and we can
write
 ω 
µ I dl jω − j  ωt − r
B= 0 0 (rˆ × zˆ ) e  c 
. (3.75)
4πr c

Using the fourth Maxwell's equation, the electric field can be written as

j
E= ∇×H . (3.76)
ω ε0

At r>>λ we can replace ∇ by ( jω/c ) rˆ , assuming the r-variation of phase much

stronger than that of the amplitude. Then we get

 ω 
I dl jω − j  ωt − r
E=− 0 2
(rˆ × (rˆ × zˆ )) e  c 
. (3.77)
4 π r ε 0c

The time average Poynting's vector, also know as intensity is

2
1  I dl  ω 2
S= Re (E × H * ) =  0  3
sin 2 θ rˆ . (3.78)
2  4 π r  2 c ε 0

Here, you should note that the intensity scales as the square of wave frequency,
inversely as the square of distance and goes as sin2 θ where θ is the angle between the
direction of observation and the direction of current flow in the antenna. It is

73
Basic Physics of maximum transverse to the direction of current flow and vanishes in the end-on
Communication
direction of the antenna.

3.6.2 Radiation Pattern

It is useful to plot polar lines from the centre of antenna in different directions such
that the length of a line is proportional to intensity Sr of radiation in that direction. The
locus of tips of these lines gives the radiation pattern of the antenna. In the case of a
dipole antenna Sr is proportional to sin2 θ. The radiation pattern in the xz- (or yz-)
plane is as shown in Fig.3.19. It has maxima at θ = π/ 2. In the xy - plane
(θ = π/2 plane) the radiation pattern is a circle since there is no φ dependence.

Fig.3.19: Radiation pattern of a short dipole antenna (a) in the xz-plane (φ = 0); and (b) in the
xy-plane (θ = π/2)

Total power radiated by the antenna is

2π π
Z 0 ω2 I 02 dl 2
W= ∫∫
0 0
P r r 2 sin θ dθ dφ =
12 π c 2
(3.79)

where Z0 = (µ0/ε0)1/2 ≈ 377 Ohm for free space. Expressing W as I 02 Rrad / 2 , we obtain
the radiation resistance of the dipole antenna
2
 dl 
Rrad = 80 π 2   . (3.80)
λ
In the above treatment, we have assumed that the current distribution along the length
of the antenna is uniform. However, in actual centre-fed dipole antennae the current is
maximum at the centre and vanishes at the ends.

You may now like to solve one numerical problem.

Spend SAQ 8
3 Min.
An antenna of length dl = 1 m carries current I = I0 e−jωt with I0 = 10 A and
ω/2π = 100 MHz. Estimate the radiation intensity in the side-on direction at a distance
of 20 km. How does it scale with ω?

One of the important parameters of antennae is the antenna gain. It characterises the
directivity of the radiation. It is the ratio of maximum value of Sr to the average value
of Sr, or the ratio of maximum intensity obtained in certain direction by the antenna to
the intensity obtained from an isotropic radiator of the same power.

74
For any practical antenna, the power per unit solid angle will vary depending on the Electromagnetic Wave
direction in which it is measured, and therefore it may be written generally as a Propagation Theory
function of the angular coordinates θ and φ as W (θ, φ). The power gain of the antenna
is then defined as the ratio of W (θ, φ) to the power per unit solid angle radiated by a
loss-less isotropic radiator. The gain function, denoted by G (θ, φ), is Isotropic radiator
radiates in all directions
W (θ, φ) uniformly. Then power per
G (θ, φ) = unit solid angle is
Wi W
Wi = source Wsr −1
4πW (θ, φ) 4π
= (3.81)
Wsource

The gain function is a very important antenna characteristic that can be measured, or
in some cases, calculated.

For most antennae, the gain function shows a well-defined maximum, which is
denoted by GM, and the radiation pattern of the antenna is

G (θ, φ)
g (θ, φ) = (3.82)
GM

The radiation pattern is seen to be simply the gain function normalised to its
maximum value. The maximum value GM is referred to as the gain of the antenna, but
this is only a gain in the sense that the antenna concentrates or focuses the power in
the direction corresponding to the maxima. It does not increase the total power
radiated.

Closely associated with the power gain is the directive gain of the antenna. This is the
ratio of W (θ, φ) to the average power per unit solid angle radiated by the actual
antenna and is denoted by D (θ, φ). The average power per unit solid angle is
ηAWsource/4π, where ηA is the antenna efficiency and Wsource is the power input, as
before. Thus the average is seen to be equal to ηAWsource and therefore the directivity
is related to power gain by

G (θ, φ)
D (θ, φ) = (3.83)
ηA

In particular, the maximum value of D (θ, φ) is termed the directivity or directive gain
given by

GM
DM = (3.84)
ηA

A transmitting antenna can also be employed as a receiving antenna. An

electromagnetic wave incident on the antenna induces an electrical current that can be
amplified and processed to retrieve relevant information from the wave. It can be
shown that the directional pattern of a receiving antenna is identical to its directional
(radiation) pattern as a transmitting antenna.

3.6.3 Antenna Array

The directivity of electromagnetic radiation from an antenna (antenna gain) can be
increased by placing a large number of identical antennae at regular intervals from
each other to form an antenna array. This is shown in Fig. 3.20. Each antenna
radiates in all directions. If the currents in all the antennae are in same phase then the
fields due to all the antennae at a long distance in normal direction from the array
75
Basic Physics of meet in the same phase giving electric field N times the field due to a single antenna,
Communication
where N is the number of antennae in an array. At an angle θ to this normal direction,
as shown in Fig.3.20 the radiation signals from successive antenna have path
ω 
difference of (d sin θ), i.e. a phase difference of  d  sin θ. If the phase difference is
c 
an integer multiple of 2π, these signals add up. Any other path difference gives
smaller resultant signal. Such an array has strong directivity in the direction θ = 0. If
we want to direct the radiation at angle θ, then we can introduce a phase difference in
 ω
currents in successive antennae by an amount φ = −   d sin θ, so that it nullifies
c
the phase difference introduced by the difference in path lengths. This scheme of
increasing antenna gain and directing the beam in desired direction is useful in
satellite communication and radar.

Fig. 3.20: Antenna array with separation between successive antennae = d

Let us now summarise the points you have learnt in this unit.

3.7 SUMMARY
• Electromagnetic fields in any medium satisfy four Maxwell’s equations:
i) ∇. D = ρ ,
ii) ∇. B = 0 ,
∂B
iii) ∇ × E = − , and
∂t
∂D
iv) ∇ × H = J + .
∂t
• A plane electromagnetic wave is expressed as E = Ae − j ( ωt −k.r ) , B = k × E / ω
ω
where k.A = 0, k = ε1eff/ 2 .
c
• The effective relative permittivity of a medium is ε eff = ε r + ( jσ / ω) ε 0 where
ε r is the relative permittivity and σ is the conductivity.
1/ 2
• Refractive index of a medium is η = εeff .

76
 1/ 2 Electromagnetic Wave
 ηe 2 
• The plasma frequency is defined as ω p =  

Propagation Theory
m
 0ε
• As frequency increases, the wave tends to travel through the area near the surface
of the conductor. This is characterized by the skin depth
1/ 2
ω p  ω 2 ω  σ 
δ=   =  
c  2ν  c  2ωε 0 
• The wave propagates through a conductor only for the frequency ω > ω p / ε1r / 2
• The dispersion relation for nth mode in wave guide is
ω2 n 2 π 2
k2 = 2 − 2 .
c a
• Any unshielded conductor carrying current can act as an antenna.
• The intensity of antenna radiation patterns is expressed by
 I dl  ω 2
S =  0  3 sin 2 θ rˆ
 4πr  2c ε 0
• By using antenna array with an appropriate phase difference, the gain of the
antenna can be increased.

3.8 TERMINAL QUESTIONS Spend 25 Minutes

1. An infinitely long cylinder of radius r0 and relative permittivity εr has charge

density ρ = ρ0 r/r0, where r is the distance from the axis of the cylinder. Obtain
the electric field at r < r0, and r > r0.
 ω 
− j  ωt − z 
 4c 
2. In a plasma the electric field of an electromagnetic wave is E = A e .
Obtain the electron density of the plasma in terms of ω. Take εr = 1.
3. A metal has εr =10, ωp = 8 × 1015 rad s−1 and ν = 1012 s−1. Estimate the skin
depth at ω ≅ 6 × 1010 rad s−1 (microwave of 3 cm vacuum wavelength).
4. Estimate the phase velocity of a TE10 mode at twice the cut off frequency for
this mode. What will be the phase velocity of TE30 mode at this frequency?

3.9 SOLUTIONS AND ANSWERS

Self Assessment Questions
1. Consider a point P inside the sphere at a distance r from the centre. Choose a
Gaussian surface in the form of a sphere of radius r with centre at O refer to
Fig. 4.21. At each point on the surface of that sphere, due to symmetry, the
electric field would be radial and have the same magnitude Er. Hence, the total r P
outward normal flux through this surface is
O
∫ D.ds = ε 0 ε r E r 4π r 2 . r0
To obtain the charge enclosed within the Gaussian surface, consider two
concentric spheres of radii r ′ and r ′ + dr ′. The surface area of the first sphere
is 4πr ′ 2 and the volume between the two spheres is 4πr ′ 2 dr ′ . The charge Fig. 4.21: Gaussian surface
contained within this volume element is ρ(r ′) 4πr ′ 2 dr ′ . Hence the charge
enclosed within the Gaussian surface of radius r < r0 is
 r3 r5 
∫ ∫ ( )
ρ dV = ρ 0 1 − r ′ 2 / r02 4πr ′ 2 dr ′ = 4πρ 0  − 2
 3 5r0
.



77
Basic Physics of Equating the flux to charge enclosed we get
Communication
ρ0  r r3 
Er =  − .
ε0 εr  3 5r 2 
 0 
For an exterior point, r > r0, the Gaussian surface lies outside the charged
sphere, hence the charge enclosed within it is merely the charge contained
within radius r0
r0

∫ ρ dV = ∫ ρ (1 − r′ )
2
0 / r02 4πr ′2 dr ′ = 8πρ0 r03 / 15.
o

Equating this to the flux we get

2ρ 0 r03
Er = .
15 ε 0 ε r r 2
2. From Eq. (3.20) we have
n0 e 2
σ=
m (ν − jω)
n0e 2
= e jφ
2 2
m ν +ω
where φ = tan−1 ω/ν. The current density due to the electric field E = A e − jωt is
n0e 2 A
J= e − j (ωt − φ ) .
2 2
m ν +ω
The phase difference between J and E is φ = π/3. Hence tan φ = 3 and
ω ω
collision frequency ν = = ≈ 5.77 × 1012 s −1.
tan φ 3
x − jωt − k x − k y y − k z z
3. In general we may write E (r, t) as E (r, t) = Ae
comparing the given field with this expression we get
kx = 2ω/c, ky = ω/c and kz = 0
hence k = (2ω/c) xˆ + (ω/c) yˆ and
k = (k x2 + k y2 )1 / 2 = 5 ω / c

Wavelength λ = 2π/k = 2πc / ω 5

and Phase Velocity, vph = ω / k = c / 5 .
4. For an electromagnetic wave in plasma
ω2
k2 = 2
(1 − ω 2p / ω 2 )
c
Wave propagates when ω > ω p = (ne 2 / mε 0 )1 / 2 ≈ 5.6 × 10 7 rad s −1 .
2ω ω
5. Here k = xˆ − zˆ
c c
2 2
A ω
Hence S av = (2xˆ − zˆ ) = A (2xˆ − zˆ )
2µω c 2µc
Magnitude of Sav is called intensity.
6. Surface wave dispersion relation is
ω 2 ε eff
k2 =
c 2 ε eff + 1
For the given parameters
78
 ω 2p Electromagnetic Wave
ε eff = ε r − = −6 Propagation Theory
ω2
6 ω
k=
5 c
5 c
λ= ≈ 0.14 µm
6ω
Field amplitude decays in the metal as
A = A0 e − α 2 d
where d is the depth
2
ω2 ω 2 ε eff
α 22 = k 2 − ε eff = −
c2 c 2 1 + ε eff
ω 6
α2 = = 6 /λ
c 5
At d = 0.1 µm
6 × 0.1µm
α 2d = 6d / λ = = 1.75
0.14
A = A0 e−1.75 = 104 × 0.17 = 1.7 × 103 V m−1
7. From third Maxwell’s equation, ∇ × E = −∂B/ ∂t, you can note that in the steady
state the t, z dependence of B should be the same as that of E. Hence we can
write ∂B/ ∂t as −jωB and the Maxwell’s equation
1  k π  A π  π 
B= ∇ × E = − xˆ A1 sin x  + zˆ 1 cos  x   e − j (ωt − kz )
jω  ω a  jω a  a 
8. The intensity at θ = π / 2 is
2 2
 I dl  ω
S = 0  3
= 1.3 × 1010 Wm − 2 .
 4πr  2c ε 0
S scales as ω2.
Terminal Questions
1. To find the electric field at a point r distance away from the cylinder axis,
consider a cylindrical Gaussian surface of radius r and length unity. By
symmetry the electric field is radial. Hence the total outward flux through the
Gaussian surface is
∫D.ds = ε0 ε r Er 2πr.
There is no contribution from the ends of the cylinder as electric field is
tangential to the surface. The charge enclosed within the Gaussian surface is
r
2πρ0 r 3
∫ ∫
ρ dV = ρ(r ′) 2πr ′dr ′ =
0
3r0
.

Equating the electric charge enclosed, with the flux for (r < r0), we get
ρ0 r 2
Er =
3 ε 0 ε r r0
For external point (r > r0), the Gaussian surface is outside the conducting
cylinder. Hence the change will be confined only between 0 & r0.
r0
2πρ0 r 3
∫ ∫
∴ ρ dV = ρ(r ′) 2πr ′dr ′ =
0
3
.

Equating it to the flux we get

79
Basic Physics of
Communication
ρ r02
Er = .
3 ε 0ε r r

2. In a plasma
ω2  ω p 
2
k2 = 1 −
c 2  ω2 
Here k = ω/4c, hence ω p = 15ω / 4
Since ω p = (ne 2 / mε 0 )1 / 2 we get
15 ω2
n= mε 0 .
16 e 2

3. For an e.m. wave in a conductor

ω2  ω2p  ν  
2
k = 2  εr −  1 − j 
c  ω2 + ν2  ω  

2
ω2 ω p
For ω << ν, k 2 = 2 j
c ων
1
1 c  ν 2
Skin depth δ = = 2   ≈ 0.2 µm.
ki ωp  ω 
4. For TEn0 mode using the expression ωn = nπ c/a the dispersion relation can be
written as
ω2 = ω2n + k 2 c 2
ω1 ω 2
When ω = 2ω1 for TE10 mode we get k = 3 , and vph = = c.
c k 3
For TE30 mode ω2 = ω32 + k 2 c 2
Since ω3 = 3ω1 and ω =2ω1, k2 is negative, hence the wave does not propagate.

Reference Material:

1. Electronic Communication by Roddy, Dennis and Coolen, John; (IV Edition)

(Prentice-Hall of India)
2. Communication Systems by Haykin, Simon; (III Edition) John Wiley & Sons
3. Modern Digital and Analog Communication Systems by Lathi, B.P.; (III Edition)
(Oxford University Press)

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