Show Maxwell's equations in free space satisfy the wave equation

Maxwell's equations in free space:

∇ . E = 0

= -B/t

∇ . B = 0

∇ B = (1/c2)(∂E/t)

The wave equation: 

2(1/c2)(2U/t2)

If we take the curl of ∇ E, we get ∇ x(∇ E) = -(/t)∇ B

Using the vector formula a×(b×c) = b(a· c)−c(a·b), we can expand the left hand side to: ∇(∇ . E) - E(∇.∇)

Since ∇.E = 0, this becomes -2-(/t)∇ B

As ∇ B = (1/c2)(∂E/t), we have -2-(/t)(1/c2)(∂E/t)

Thus, 2(1/c2)(2E/t2) which shows that Maxwell's equations satisfy the wave equation. A similar process can be applied to B

DD
Answered by Dojcin D. Physics tutor

7254 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

2 identical trolleys of mass M(one is loaded with 2 blocks of mass m) are on a ramp inclined at 35° and are connected by a wire that passes around a pulley at the top of the ramp. They are released and accelerate accordingly. Show that a=(mgsin35°)/(M+m).


An electron is accelerated through a uniform electric field of strength, E= 20 [N/C]. Determine the speed after the the electron travels 0.5 m from rest.


If a ball is thrown on the Moon, the projectile would have a greater range than if it were to have been thrown on Earth. Why is this the case?


What speed do satellites orbit at?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning