Vector Applications of Poynting Vector
Poynting vector is applicable to large number of places like:
- It is used in the study of electromagnetic wave propagation. As the formula helps to analyse the direction of wave propagation, engineers use this to strategize and study optimal methods of wave propagation in wireless systems.
- It is used for designing antennas. Since we know antennas are used for communication and must have a large range of coverage with minimal energy loss, Poynting vector helps to analyse the antenna design for efficient energy transfer.
- Astrophysics makes use of Poynting vector while analysing energy transmission of celestial objects like stars, moon. This is done to get better perspective of universe. It is also used to assess the power received from sun.
- It is also used to study various other topics in physics like radiation pressure.
Poynting Vector
Poynting Vector as the name suggests is a quantity that has both magnitude and direction. In the electrical industry, whilst dealing with electromagnetic waves, we often have to come across some tools that can help us analyze these waves. If we think about how electromagnetic waves travel, we realize that we need a term to define the energy flux density of these waves and this is represented by Poynting Vector. Basically, the Poynting vector represents power per unit area. It generally is defined as the cross-product of an electric field and magnetic field, giving us the direction of energy flux which is in the direction of wave propagation. In this article, we will learn about Poynting Vector, its meaning, and its physical Interpretation. We will also discuss the components used in the formula of the Poynting vector. Later we will discuss some advantages and disadvantages of the Poynting vector and how are they put into use. We will conclude the article with some Frequently Asked Questions.
Table of Content
- What is Poynting Vector?
- Physical Interpretation of Poynting Vector
- Formula of Poynting
- Advantages of Poynting Vector
- Disadvantages of Poynting Vector
- Vector Applications of Poynting Vector
- Solved Examples
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