Wave Impedance Calculator
A Wave Impedance Calculator is a tool used to calculate the intrinsic impedance (also called characteristic impedance) of an electromagnetic wave as it propagates through a medium.
In simple terms, wave impedance tells you the ratio of the electric field strength (E) to the magnetic field strength (H) of an electromagnetic wave:
η=EH\eta = \frac{E}{H}
where:
- η = Wave impedance (Ohms, Ω)
- E = Electric field intensity (V/m)
- H = Magnetic field intensity (A/m)
For a lossless medium, the wave impedance is determined by the material’s permeability and permittivity:
η=με\eta = \sqrt{\frac{\mu}{\varepsilon}}
where:
- μ = Absolute permeability (H/m)
- ε = Absolute permittivity (F/m)
Free Space Example
For free space (vacuum):
- Relative permeability, μr = 1
- Relative permittivity, εr = 1
The wave impedance becomes approximately:
η0≈376.73 Ω≈120π Ω\eta_0 \approx 376.73\ \Omega \approx 120\pi\ \Omega
