AdvancedTopic 94 of 106Electrical Engineering
Poynting vector
Gives direction and rate of energy flow of an electromagnetic wave.
In depth
S=E×H gives power flow per unit area (W/m²). For a plane wave S=E²/(2η) with η=377 Ω in free space. Poynting's theorem balances stored energy, dissipation and flow. Explains energy transfer in cables.
Key points
- Direction of propagation
- Time-average S
- Radiation intensity
ExampleA 100 V/m peak field carries about 13 W/m².
What is Poynting vector?
Gives direction and rate of energy flow of an electromagnetic wave.
Why is it important to understand poynting vector?
The Poynting vector tells you how energy moves through a field, which is needed for power transfer and antenna design.
What does the Poynting vector give?
The power per unit area carried by an electromagnetic field, with direction along the energy flow.
Why is the Poynting vector important for cables?
It shows that energy flows in the space around the conductors rather than inside them, which explains how power moves along the cable.
How is Poynting vector used in practice?
Typical applications include calculating the power flow in a coaxial cable between source and load, estimating the energy flux reaching a receiving antenna and checking energy flow near a high-power microwave horn.
What should I learn before Poynting vector?
Study "Maxwell's equations" first (topic 93 of 106 in Electrical Engineering). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of Poynting vector?
Direction of propagation. Time-average S. Radiation intensity.
Can you give an example of Poynting vector?
A 100 V/m peak field carries about 13 W/m².
What comes after Poynting vector?
The next topic is "Transmission line theory", which builds directly on this one.
How difficult is Poynting vector?
It is classed as Advanced in Electrical Engineering (topic 94 of 106). It is an advanced topic. It assumes you are comfortable with the intermediate topics in Electrical Engineering.