The Use of Complex Field Vectors in Diffraction Theory.
Abstract
A rigorous solution to the diffraction problem is obtained using two complex field vectors: Q-bar = mu H-bar + i square root of (mu epsilon) E-bar and P-bar = mu H-bar - i mu epsilon E-bar. The field equations which are uncoupled in terms of Q-bar and P-bar can be integrated directly to yield a pair of uncoupled vector integral equations involving the tangential components of Q-bar and P-bar on an arbitrary open surface. When the surface is planar, the vector equations are expressed in a more useable set of six component integral equations. The restrictions in the derivation of these latter equations are that the initial E-bar and H-bar satisfy Maxwell's equations on the open surface, and that the resultant field is calculated at least several wavelengths from the initial field. The Rayleigh-Sommerfeld equation of scalar diffraction theory is obtained as a special case of the component set of equations. A discussion of the physical meaning of these component equations lends insight into the diffraction process. The complex field vector approach is seen to be a rigorous, yet simple and straightforward, method of solving the diffraction problem. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA080245
Entities
People
- Mark Edward Rogers
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology