Preface

The Maxwell theory of electromagnetism was well established in the latter nineteenth century, when H. R. Hertz demonstrated the electromagnetic wave. The theory laid the foundation for physical optics, from which the quantum concept emerged for microscopic physics. Einstein realized that the speed of electromagnetic propagation is a universal constant, and thereby recognized the Maxwell equations to compose a fundamental law in all inertial systems of reference. On the other hand, the pressing demand for efficient radar systems during WWII accelerated studies on guided waves, resulting in today's advanced telecommunication technology, in addition to a new radio and microwave spectroscopy. The studies were further extended to optical frequencies, and laser electronics and sophisticated semi-conducting devices are now familiar in daily life. Owing to these advances, our knowledge of electromagnetic radiation has been significantly upgraded beyond plane waves in free space. Nevertheless, in the learning process the basic theory remains founded upon early empirical rules, and the traditional teaching should therefore be modernized according to priorities in the modern era.

In spite of the fact that there are many books available on this well-established theme, I was motivated to write this book, reviewing the laws in terms of contemporary knowledge in order to deal with modern applications. Here I followed two basic guidelines. First, I considered electronic charge and spin as empirical in the description of electromagnetism. This is unlike the view of early physicists, who considered these ideas hypothetical. Today we know they are factual, although still unexplained from first principle. Second, the concept of "fields" should be in the forefront of discussion, as introduced by Faraday. In these regards I benefited from Professor Pohl's textbook, Elektrizitätslehre, where I found a very stimulating approach. Owing a great deal to him, I was able to write my introductory chapters in a rather untraditional way, an approach I have found very useful in my classes. In addition, in this book I discussed microwave and laser electronics in some depth, areas where coherent radiation plays a significant role for modern telecommunication.

I wrote this book primarily for students at upper undergraduate levels, hoping it would serve as a useful reference as well. I emphasized the physics of electromagnetism, leaving mathematical details to writers of books on "mathematical physics." Thus, I did not include sections for "mathematical exercise", but I hope that readers will go through the mathematical details in the text to enhance their understanding of the physical content.

In Chapter 21 quantum transitions are discussed to an extent that aims to make it understandable intuitively, although here I deviated from classical theories. Although this topic is necessary for a reader to deal with optical transitions, my intent was to discuss the limits of Maxwell's classical theory that arise from phase coherency in electromagnetic radiation.

It is a great pleasure to thank my students and colleagues, who assisted me by taking part in numerous discussions and criticisms. I have benefited especially by comments from S. Jerzak of York University, who took time to read the first draft. I am also grateful to J. Nauheimer who helped me find literature in the German language. My appreciation goes also to Springer-Verlag for permission to use some figures from R. W. Pohl's book Elektrizitätslehre.

Finally, I thank my wife Haruko for her encouragement during my writing, without which this book could not have been completed.

M. Fujimoto
September 2006