In: Physics
A conductor with conductivity σ1 is perfectly polished so that the only source of loss on reflection comes from the conductivity of the material.
a. For a perfect conductor, prove that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection of light at a flat conducting surface.
b. Sketch the skin depth as a function of conductivity.
c. What is the intensity reflection coefficient, Iout/Iin for light at normal incidence as a function of conductivity? Sketch the curve and discuss the limiting cases of high and low conductivity.
d. Similar reflection at normal incidence occurs from a dielectric surface. Find a formula for what the index of refraction would need to be to give the same intensity reflection coefficient for a conductor having σ = 107 / Ωm and ω =1015 rad/sec.