Design and Analysis of an Electromagnetic Wave

Propagation System

Ziml Tariq
Electrical Engineering Department of
Information Technology University, Lahore

Okara,Pakistan
[email protected]

I. INTRODUCTION This task focuses on simulating how electromagnetic waves

behave when they travel through two different types of
Electromagnetic waves are essential for many technologies, media: lossless dielectrics and conducting materials.
such as communication systems, radar, and remote sensing. Using MATLAB, we will simulate how the wave's
These waves travel through different materials, and amplitude and phase change as it travels through these
understanding how they behave in different environments is materials. For dielectrics, we expect minimal energy loss,
crucial for designing effective systems. The study of while for conductors, the wave will weaken, and the phase
electromagnetic wave propagation is based on Maxwell's will change due to the material’s properties. Comparing
equations, which describe how electric and magnetic fields these behaviors for different types of waves, such as radio
interact. These equations help us understand how waves frequencies (RF) and optical waves, will give us a better
travel in free space and various media, like air, glass, or understanding of how materials affect wave propagation.
metal.
By exploring how waves behave in different materials, this
When electromagnetic waves move through different task will help us understand how to improve technologies
materials, their behavior changes depending on the like fiber optics and radio communications. Knowing how
properties of the material. In lossless dielectric materials, waves are affected by attenuation and phase shift allows us
such as air or glass, the waves move with minimal energy to design better systems for communication, radar, and
loss, meaning they don’t weaken much as they travel. These optical technologies. This knowledge will lead to more
materials slow down the wave compared to free space efficient systems and improved performance in the
because their refractive index is greater than 1. On the other technologies we use every day.
hand, in conducting materials, like metals or seawater, the
waves weaken significantly as they travel because these II. METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS
materials absorb energy. This happens because the refractive The methodology for this task involves simulating the
index in conducting materials has both a real and imaginary propagation of electromagnetic waves through different
part, leading to both phase shifts and attenuation. media using MATLAB. We will model wave behavior in
lossless dielectric materials (such as air) and conducting
Attenuation refers to the reduction in the strength of a wave materials (like seawater). The simulation will calculate the
as it moves through a material. In conductors, waves lose attenuation and phase shift of the waves by determining
energy because of the material's electrical properties, and the attenuation constant and phase constant based on the
this loss is more significant at higher frequencies. Phase refractive indices of the materials. By comparing how waves
shift is another important factor, describing how the waves behave in these media at different frequencies (e.g., RF vs.
phase changes as it travels through a medium. In lossless optical), we can analyze how the wave's amplitude and
dielectrics, the wave’s speed changes, causing the phase to phase change as it travels through each medium. This will
shift, but there’s no loss of energy. However, in conductors, help in understanding the effects of different materials on
the wave experiences both phase shifts and energy loss. wave propagation.

Understanding how waves are affected by attenuation and

A. Vector Field Analysis:
phase shift is crucial for many real-world applications. For
example, in optical communication systems, the signal This task involves analysing the electric and magnetic
needs to travel through fiber optic cables, and knowing how fields for a plane wave propagating in the z-direction with
the electric field described by:
much the signal weakens (attenuates) as it travels is key to
maintaining a strong connection. In radar systems, waves E(z, t) = E0 cos (kz - wt).
travel through different environments, such as air or water,
The goal is to derive and verify the curl and divergence
and understanding their behavior helps improve detection
of the electric and magnetic fields in free space. The curl of
and communication. the electric field is calculated to determine the corresponding
magnetic field, which is perpendicular to both the electric

XXX-X-XXXX-XXXX-X/XX/$XX.00 ©20XX IEEE

field and the propagation direction, as per Maxwell's
equations. The divergence of the electric field is verified to
be zero, indicating no free charges in free space. The
magnetic field is determined from the curl of the electric

relationships between the fields, specifically ∇ × E= -∂B/∂t

field, and Maxwell's equations are validated by checking the

and ∇ × B = μ0 ε0 ∂E/∂t. This task ensures that the plane

wave solution satisfies Maxwell’s equations, providing a
detailed understanding of electromagnetic wave behaviour in
free space.

By comparing the electric field distributions in both

coordinate systems, we can visualize how the same wave
appears differently depending on the chosen coordinate
system. The Cartesian system is easier for linear wave
propagation along the z-axis, while the cylindrical system is
better suited for problems with radial symmetry, such as
waveguides or antenna radiation patterns.

C. Wave Polarization

This task focuses on simulating three types of wave

polarization: linear, circular, and elliptical. In linear
polarization, the electric field oscillates in one direction,
staying in the same plane as the wave travels. Circular
polarization occurs when the electric field rotates in a
circle, with equal magnitudes and a 90-degree phase shift
The results prove that the plane wave solution adheres to between the components. Elliptical polarization is a more
Maxwell's equations, confirming that a time-varying electric general case where the electric field traces an ellipse, with
field induces a magnetic field, and that the divergence of the unequal magnitudes or different phase shifts between
electric field is zero in free space. This demonstrates the components. MATLAB is used to simulate and visualize
transverse nature of electromagnetic waves, where the these polarizations by plotting the electric field’s trajectory
electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to each other over time. This task helps in understanding how different
and to the direction of wave propagation. These findings are polarizations affect wave behavior, which is important for
crucial for understanding wave behaviour in communication designing systems like antennas and communication
systems, radar, and optical technologies. devices.

B. Coordinate System Transformations

In this Task, the plane wave equation is represented in both

Cartesian and Cylindrical coordinates to compare the
electric field distribution. In Cartesian coordinates, the
electric field is expressed as:

E(z, t) = E0 cos(kz - ωt) x̂

where the field oscillates in the x-direction as the wave

propagates along the z-axis. The electric field is evaluated at
different x, y, and z values, and visualized in 3D to show the
wave's propagation. In Cylindrical coordinates, the wave is
described using ρ (radial distance), φ (angular coordinate),
and z, with the electric field components in the radial (Erho)
and azimuthal (Ephi) directions. This transformation is
useful for understanding wave behavior in systems with
cylindrical symmetry, such as antennas or waveguides.
Simulated Polarizations MATLAB Results: amplitude. These coefficients depend on factors such as the
angle of incidence and the properties of the materials,
Linearly Polarized Wave: including their permittivity (ability to permit electric field
lines) and permeability (ability to support magnetic fields).

The Fresnel equations are used to calculate these reflection

and transmission coefficients. They differentiate between
Circularly Polarized Wave: polarizations of the wave (parallel and perpendicular to the
plane of incidence) and take into account the angle of
incidence, which is the angle at which the wave strikes the
interface. The Fresnel equations provide formulas to
compute how much of the wave’s energy is reflected and
Elliptical Polarized Wave: how much is transmitted through the boundary, depending
on these variables.

In MATLAB, the coefficients are calculated for different

angles of incidence, and the reflection and transmission at
In antennas, polarization determines the alignment of the the boundary are visualized. This analysis helps in
antenna with the incoming or outgoing electromagnetic understanding how waves behave at material interfaces,
wave. For example, in linear polarization, antennas need to which is critical in applications like antenna design, optical
be aligned with the wave's electric field direction for fibers, radar systems, and communication links, where
maximum signal reception or transmission. This is controlling how waves interact with boundaries is key to
commonly used in terrestrial communication systems, where system performance. The task is important for optimizing
the electric field oscillates in a fixed direction. Circular these systems, ensuring efficient signal transmission, and
polarization, on the other hand, is often used in satellite minimizing losses at material interfaces.
communications because it allows the antenna to receive
signals regardless of the antenna's orientation, making it
more versatile for mobile or rotating systems. Elliptical
polarization is useful in applications where the signal’s
polarization varies, such as in some radar systems, and can
be optimized to improve signal clarity and minimize
interference.

In optical systems, polarization is crucial for controlling

light behavior. For instance, linear polarization is used in
optical filters and polarizers to block or pass certain light
waves, which is key in devices like sunglasses, camera
lenses, and LCD screens. Circular polarization is
significant in optical communication and 3D displays, where
it helps transmit data or create distinct viewing angles.
Elliptical polarization is employed in certain optical
devices to achieve specific light manipulation, such as in
optical fibers and high-precision sensors.
Results:
Polarization is a critical factor in antenna design,
communication systems, and optical technologies, affecting Reflection and Transmission Coefficients for Free Space
the efficiency, signal quality, and versatility of these systems to Dielectric Interface:
in various real-world applications.

D. Boundary Conditions

Task 4 focuses on the behavior of electromagnetic waves

when they interact with the boundary between two different Reflection and Transmission Coefficients for Free Space
media, such as free space and a dielectric material, or free to Conductor Interface:
space and a conductor. When an incident wave strikes the
boundary between two materials, part of the wave is
reflected back into the original medium, and part of it is
transmitted into the second medium. The reflection .
coefficient represents the ratio of the reflected wave’s
amplitude to the incident wave’s amplitude, while the
transmission coefficient represents the ratio of the
transmitted wave’s amplitude to the incident wave’s
E. Wave Propagation in Different Mediums

This Task focuses on simulating the attenuation and phase

shift of electromagnetic waves as they propagate through
different media, specifically lossless dielectrics (such as air)
and conducting mediums (like seawater). When
electromagnetic waves propagate through a medium, their
amplitude can decrease due to absorption of energy
(attenuation), and their phase can change depending on the
properties of the medium. In this task, the behavior of these
waves is analyzed in both types of mediums.

In lossless dielectrics, which include air and vacuum,

electromagnetic waves propagate without any significant
energy loss, meaning there is no attenuation. However, the
phase of the wave can still change as it travels through the
medium. The rate at which the wave's phase shifts is
determined by the medium's permittivity (which indicates MATLAB Simulation Results:
the material’s ability to permit electric field lines) and
permeability (which indicates the material's ability to Propagation Characteristics in Lossless Dielectric (RF
support magnetic fields). In this case, the wave number and Waves):
angular frequency are used to determine the wavelength
and the propagation speed of the wave, but the wave’s
amplitude remains constant, as no energy is lost.

In conducting mediums, such as seawater or metals, the

wave undergoes attenuation because some of the Propagation Characteristics in Conducting Medium
electromagnetic energy is absorbed by the material, resulting (Optical Waves):
in a decrease in the wave's amplitude as it propagates. This
attenuation is particularly noticeable at higher frequencies
and is described using the skin depth concept. The skin
depth represents the distance over which the wave’s
amplitude decreases to 1/e of its original value. It is
inversely proportional to the square root of the conductivity F. Trend Detection and Practical Applications
(σ) of the medium and the frequency of the wave. This
means that in a highly conductive medium or at high  Wave polarization affects antenna design
frequencies, the wave will attenuate much faster than in a or radar systems:
less conductive medium or at lower frequencies.

In MATLAB, it simulates the propagation of Wave polarization plays a critical role in the design of
electromagnetic waves through lossless dielectrics and antennas and radar systems because it affects how
conducting mediums. For lossless dielectrics, the wave's electromagnetic waves interact with the environment,
amplitude remains constant, and only the phase changes as it including the transmitting and receiving antennas.
propagates. In conducting mediums, the wave undergoes Polarization refers to the orientation of the electric field of
attenuation, where its amplitude decreases due to energy an electromagnetic wave. It can be linear, circular, or
absorption, and the phase also shifts. The skin depth is used elliptical, and each type has distinct effects on the
to model attenuation in conducting materials. By varying the performance of antennas and radar systems.
medium's properties (permittivity, conductivity) and the
wave’s frequency, MATLAB calculates the attenuation In antenna design, the polarization of the antenna
coefficient and phase shift, helping to understand how determines the alignment of the electric field with respect to
waves behave in different environments, which is important the antenna elements. For maximum signal reception and
for applications like communication, radar, and optical transmission efficiency, the polarization of the transmitting
systems. antenna should match the polarization of the receiving
antenna. For example, if a linear polarized antenna is used
for transmission, the receiving antenna must also be aligned
in the same polarization direction to achieve optimal signal
strength. Mismatched polarization leads to signal loss,
reducing communication efficiency. In applications like
satellite communications, TV broadcasting, or wireless
communication, polarization is used to minimize
interference and improve signal clarity by allowing multiple
signals to coexist on the same frequency band but with
different polarizations.
In radar systems, polarization is crucial for distinguishing reflection from tunnel surfaces. By using dual-polarized
between targets and improving the clarity of the radar antennas, the system can maintain optimal signal strength,
signals. Different targets, such as metallic surfaces or water, even when waves change polarization due to the complex
interact with electromagnetic waves differently based on interactions with the tunnel environment.
their polarization. By transmitting waves with different
polarizations (e.g., linear, circular), radar systems can gain 3) Medium Properties and Their Influence:
more information about the target's properties. Dual-
polarized radar systems, which transmit and receive waves
The research also highlights the importance of the material
with both horizontal and vertical polarization, can enhance
properties of the tunnel and the frequency of the
the radar's ability to detect and classify targets, especially in
electromagnetic waves in determining the wave propagation
meteorological radar, where distinguishing between
characteristics. For instance, the dielectric properties of
different types of precipitation (e.g., rain, hail, snow) is
materials like concrete or rock can impact how much signal
important.
is absorbed. Conductive materials, such as metals embedded
in the tunnel’s structure, can reflect waves, causing them to
 Research paper Discussion: attenuate more quickly. Higher frequencies, such as those
used in microwave communication, experience greater
The paper "Wave Propagation Modeling Techniques in attenuation in confined spaces compared to lower
Tunnel Environments" by MD. Abdus Samad, Sung-Woong frequencies. The paper suggests that frequency selection
Choi, Chung-Sup Kim, and Kwonhue Choi presents a plays a critical role in reducing attenuation. Lower
detailed study on wave propagation in tunnel environments, frequencies tend to propagate further in tunnel
focusing on modeling and designing communication environments, while higher frequencies are more prone to
systems to optimize wave transmission. This research is rapid loss due to absorption and scattering.
significant due to the unique challenges posed by the
confined, heterogeneous, and often complex environments 4) Adaptive Techniques and System Design:
inside tunnels, which cause electromagnetic waves to
behave differently than in open space. To further improve communication reliability, the authors
recommend the use of adaptive modulation and coding
1) Wave Propagation Challenges in Tunnels: schemes. These techniques adjust the transmission
parameters dynamically based on the channel conditions,
The authors begin by analyzing how electromagnetic waves, such as the degree of signal fading or attenuation. By
when transmitted through tunnels, encounter various adapting the modulation scheme, the system can maintain a
obstacles, such as the tunnel's walls, floor, and ceiling. high data rate when conditions are favorable and switch to a
These surfaces cause signal reflections and diffraction, more robust, lower-rate scheme when signal strength is
leading to multipath propagation and signal fading. In weaker. This allows for efficient use of the available
confined environments like tunnels, the waves lose energy bandwidth and ensures reliable communication even under
more rapidly than in open space, primarily due to high challenging conditions like those found in tunnels.
attenuation. The materials of the tunnel walls, such as
concrete, rock, and metal, absorb and scatter 5) Conclusion:
electromagnetic energy, which directly impacts the
performance of wireless communication links. This In conclusion, the paper emphasizes the need for a
phenomenon reduces signal strength, increases multipath comprehensive understanding of wave propagation in tunnel
interference, and creates challenges for maintaining a stable environments for effective communication system design.
communication link. The polarization of waves, material properties of the
tunnel, and frequency choice are all critical factors that
2) Impact of Wave Polarization: influence the performance of the system. By utilizing dual-
polarized antennas, frequency optimization, and adaptive
Polarization, the orientation of the electric field of an signal processing techniques, the communication system
electromagnetic wave, significantly impacts communication can be optimized for the unique challenges posed by tunnels.
performance in tunnels. Since waves may be reflected or This research provides valuable insights into improving the
refracted when interacting with tunnel walls, the polarization performance and reliability of communication links in
of the transmitted wave may change upon reflection. If the tunnels, which are essential in various applications such as
receiving antenna is not aligned with the new polarization, underground transportation, mining operations, and
the signal strength is reduced, leading to a phenomenon emergency communication systems.
called polarization mismatch. This mismatch can degrade
the quality of the received signal and cause a loss of .
communication.

To mitigate this, the authors suggest the use of dual-

polarized antennas. These antennas are capable of
transmitting and receiving signals with both vertical and
horizontal polarization. This approach ensures that the signal
is received correctly even if the polarization changes due to
 REFERENCES
[1] MD. ABDUS SAMAD. (2022). Wave Propagation Modeling
Techniques inTunnel Environments.