1
$\begingroup$

Are those two terms the same, or...? My book says that the Poynting vector is an energy flux density given by:

$$\mathbf{S} = \frac{1}{\mu_{0}}(\mathbf{E} \times \mathbf{B})$$

So that alone should indicate that it's not the same thing. But I've been looking through my book, and every time I look up energy density, not flux, it points me in the direction of the Poynting vector.

So, are they the same, and if not, what is the energy density given by?

Improve this question
$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
3
$\begingroup$

The energy density (energy per unit volume) of electromagnetic fields in vacuum is given by $\frac{1}{2}(\varepsilon_0 E^2+B^2/\mu_0)$. The Poynting flux is different: it is the flux of that energy passing through some surface (energy per unit surface per unit time). You can see it as the rate at which the energy is displaced.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
3
  • $\begingroup$ So even though fields have direction, you just use the magnitude of the fields, and ignore the field direction ? $\endgroup$
    – Denver Dang
    Commented May 26, 2013 at 21:52
  • $\begingroup$ @DenverDang $E^2 = \vec{E} \cdot \vec{E}$ is a scalar. Likewise with $B^2$. The energy density does not have a direction. $\vec{E} \times \vec{B}$ on the other hand does have direction... $\endgroup$
    – dmckee --- ex-moderator kitten
    Commented May 26, 2013 at 21:59
  • $\begingroup$ Yup, just saw that :) My mistake. And thank you :) $\endgroup$
    – Denver Dang
    Commented May 26, 2013 at 22:04

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.