The Electromagnetic Field near a Metal Surface in the Semi-classical Infinite Barrier Model

Abstract

The electromagnetic field has been calculated in the semi-classical infinite barrier model (SCIB). Since the conductivity tensor is discontinuous at the surface, the field component perpendicular to the surface is found to be discontinuous. In the surface region the field is modified due to single-particle excitations. This contribution to the vector potential is analyzed carefully and numerical results, as for the vector potential, is given. For certain angles of incidence and frequencies the transmitted wave propagates nearly parallel to the surface and the usefulness of the SCIB-model is questioned since it does not describe the detailed surface properties properly. Expressions and numerical results for the distribution of absorbed energy are given and a discussion of the local absorption of energy sometimes becoming negative.