The module of Guided Electromagnetic Waves represents the first part of the course of Electromagnetic Fields. The aim of the course it to provide the students with basic information on the electromagnetic waves and introduce them to analysis and quantitative determination of the related physical phenomena. In particular, the subject of this module are the waves propagation in vacuum, in dielectrics, in conductors, in cold plasma and in guiding structures such as the transmission lines.
Course Prerequisites
The course requires students to know the basic concepts of mathematics and physics thaught in undergraduate engineering courses, and be familiar with the following mathematical tools: complex numbers, vector algebra, scalar and vector differential calculus, divergence theorem, Cartesian and spherical coordinate systems; the concepts of force, work, energy, power, field, charge, current, electric and magnetic polarization, electrostatic and magnetostatic fields in vacuum and in materials, Maxwell’s equations, measurement units of physical quantities in MKSA system.
Teaching Methods
Lectures: 30 hours Practical classes: 25 hours
Assessment Methods
The final test consists on a written exam and an oral exam, in the same call. Candidates are admitted to the oral exam with a minimum score of 15/30 at the written exam.
Texts
David M. Pozar, Microwave Engineering (Fourth Edition), John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2011.
Contents
1. Fundamental laws and concepts Maxwell's equations in differential and integral form, charge conservation law, phasor notation. The constitutive equations. Continuity conditions of electromagnetic fields at the interface between different media and boundary conditions. 2. Uniform plane waves Uniform plane waves in vacuum, in low-loss dielectrics, attenuation, propagation in cold plasma, in good conductors. Skin effect, perfect electric conductor. Polarization of the waves. Poynting theorem. Reflection and refraction of uniform plane waves in the presence of discontinuities and layers. 3. Transmission lines Elementary theory of transmission lines and telegraphists' equation. Characteristic impedance. Reflection coefficient, standing waves, impedance matching, and Smith's Chart. Description of the most common transmission lines: coaxial cable, microstrip line, coplanar waveguide.
