title: When does the choice of the refractive index of a linear, homogeneous, isotropic, active, dielectric medium matter?
abstract: Two choices are possible for the refractive index of a linear, homogeneous, isotropic, active, dielectric material. Either of the choices is adequate for obtaining frequency-domain solutions for (i) scattering by slabs, spheres, and other objects of bounded extent; (ii) guided--wave propagation in homogeneously filled, cross-sectionally uniform, straight waveguide sections with perfectly conducting walls; and (iii) image formation due to flat lenses. The correct choice does matter for the half-space problem, but that problem is not realistic.
authors: Department of Engineering Science & Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
authors: Akhlesh
authors: A
authors: Lakhtakia
authors: Joseph B
authors: JB
authors: Geddes
authors: Tom G
authors: TG
authors: Mackay
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D016880:Anisotropy; D003198:Computer Simulation; D008027:Light; D008420:Manufactured Materials; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012031:Refractometry / Q000379:methods*; D012542:Scattering, Radiation