CW 2/16

Theme: Optical communications and other RF communications are all based on electromagnetic waves. The EM waves differ only in frequency. All EM waves obey the same law (represented by Maxwell’s equation) in propagation. If so, is it true that there is no difference in the transmission of signals between those of optical and RF/microwave communications?

Q1.

Can a pure continuous EM wave as shown below carry information for communications?

Manipulate[
empts= {#,Cos[2 π 16(#-t)]} &  /@ Range[0,1,1/256.];
Graphics[{Hue[0.35,1,1],Line[empts]
},AspectRatio-> 0.25, Background->Black]
,{t,0,1}]

Q2.

Consider a continous pure EM wave: (e^(i (β z-ω t)))  as a source. If I block it and unblock it real fast, does that change the EM after the blocking/unblocking?

Q3.

What is the most relevant or useful method of analysis for an EM waves used to transmit information?