Using the Maxwell equations
∇⋅E=ϵ0ρ,∇×E=−∂t∂B∇⋅B=0,∇×B−ϵ0μ0∂t∂E=μ0j
show that in vacuum, E satisfies the wave equation
c21∂t2∂2E−∇2E=0
where c2=(ϵ0μ0)−1, as well as ∇⋅E=0. Also show that at a planar boundary between two media, Et (the tangential component of E ) is continuous. Deduce that if one medium is of negligible resistance, Et=0.
Consider an empty cubic box with walls of negligible resistance on the planes x=0, x=a,y=0,y=a,z=0,z=a, where a>0. Show that an electric field in the interior of the form
Ex=f(x)sin(amπy)sin(anπz)e−iωtEy=g(y)sin(alπx)sin(anπz)e−iωtEz=h(z)sin(alπx)sin(amπy)e−iωt
with l,m and n positive integers, satisfies the boundary conditions on all six walls. Now suppose that
f(x)=f0cos(alπx),g(y)=g0cos(amπy),h(z)=h0cos(anπz)
where f0,g0 and h0 are constants. Show that the wave equation (∗) is satisfied, and determine the frequency ω. Find the further constraint on f0,g0 and h0 ?