Using Maxwell’s equations to find $\mathbf{B}$

electromagnetic-radiationelectromagnetismmaxwell-equations

The $\mathbf{E}$ component of an electromagnetic wave in free space is:
$$\mathbf{E}(x, t) = E_0 \cos{(kx-\omega t)} \hat{\bf y}$$

How do I find the corresponding $\mathbf{B}$ component using one of Maxwell's equations (in differential form)?

I assume that I must use one of either
$$\nabla\times\mathbf{E} = -\frac{\partial \mathbf{B}}{\partial t}$$
or
$$\nabla\times\mathbf{B} = \epsilon_0\mu_0\frac{\partial\mathbf{E}}{\partial t}$$

(probably the second one?)

I also know that I am looking for an expression in the form of $$\mathbf{B}(x, t) = B_0 \cos{(kx-\omega t)} \hat{\bf z},$$
but I am not sure about the intermediate steps.

Best Answer

I assume that I must use one of either ... or ...
(probably the second one?)

You need to use both of them.

From your expressions for $\mathbf{E}(x, t) $ and $\mathbf{B}(x, t)$ calculate $\nabla\times\mathbf{E}$ and $\frac{\partial \mathbf{B}}{\partial t}$. Insert the results into the first of your Maxwell equations. You will get $$E_0k=B_0\omega. \tag{1}$$

Likewise calculate $\nabla\times\mathbf{B}$ and $\frac{\partial\mathbf{E}}{\partial t}$. Insert the results into the second of your Maxwell equations. You will get $$B_0 k=\epsilon_0\mu_0 E_0\omega. \tag{2}$$

From (1) and (2) and a little bit of algebra you find $$B_0=E_0\sqrt{\epsilon_0\mu_0} \tag{3}$$ and $$k=\omega\sqrt{\epsilon_0\mu_0}. \tag{4}$$

(3) is the magnetic field amplitude you were looking for. And equation (4) tells you the speed of your electromagnetic wave is $\frac{1}{\sqrt{\epsilon_0\mu_0}}$ which happens to be equal to the speed of light $c=3\cdot 10^8$ m/s.