Abstract
Hodge–deRham theory is applied to Maxwell’s equations for a transverse electromagnetic wave with a given wave-front surface S. It is shown that the E and B fields, considered as tangent fields to S, are harmonic in the sense of Hodge theory. If S is a spheroid it is known that the space of harmonic fields on S has dimension zero, and hence transverse fields with spheroidal wave fronts do not exist. The same result holds, but for a different reason, if S is a noncircular cylinder or a surface of revolution, and it is conjectured that smooth, singularity-free, transverse solutions to Maxwell’s equations exist only if S is a plane or a circular cylinder.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
