Temporal Structure of Electromagnetic Emission in CA: Wavelets in Energy Events
Abstract
This work proposes a refined mechanism for electromagnetic wave emission based on smooth charge acceleration constrained by the admittance of the vacuum field (as described by ε0μ0). The framework departs from mass-centered interpretations, focusing instead on temporally structured energy events. Each emission event is modeled as a smooth, bounded acceleration (or deceleration) process governed by jerk-limited motion — akin to a Taylor-series envelope or sinusoidal arc. The emission creates an asymmetric wavelet with a leading edge formed by near-field displacement (∼¼ wavelength prior to the main energy release) and a trailing edge defined by the field’s quality factor (Q). This model offers a physically grounded explanation for the structure of photon-like emissions and provides testable predictions for interactions with media and field discontinuities.
Introduction
In classical electrodynamics, radiation from an accelerating charge is well established. However, standard treatments often abstract away the fine temporal structure of the charge’s motion. Here, we propose a structured, time-asymmetric model for discrete electromagnetic emission events within the Charge Admittance (CA) framework — a causal interaction between charge motion and the vacuum field lattice characterized by ε0 and μ0.
The central insight is that energy release occurs through bounded, smooth transitions rather than idealized delta or sinusoidal functions. This nuance directly shapes wave morphology, the emission spectrum, and impedance-matched interactions.
Charge Motion and Wave Initiation
The emission process begins with a localized charge displacement — whether spontaneous (e.g., atomic decay) or externally driven (e.g., RF antenna). This displacement follows a smooth time-dependent trajectory minimizing jerk (the derivative of acceleration). A Taylor-series-derived or half-sinusoidal form ensures spectral compactness and coupling efficiency:
Generalized Position Equation (Extended Kinematics):
Such motion promotes coherent energy transfer and minimal high-frequency sidebands.
Where:
— Poynting vector (radiated energy flux at distance
and time
)
— radial distance from the source (center of emission)
— observation time
— impedance of free space
— time-dependent acceleration of the radiating charge
— net velocity change (impulse) delivered to the charge over the interval
— energy radiated is proportional to the square of the momentum change
— unit vector in the direction of propagation
Phase Timeline for a Single-Frequency Waveform / Pulse Envelope
Time 0 – Start of Emission:
• Charge acceleration begins (Taylor-like rise)
• Electric field accelerates
• Magnetic field
Phase 1 – First 1/4 Wavelength:
• Acceleration continues, smooth and band-limited
• increases,
begins to rise
• Charge motion ends (no further energy input)
Phase 2 – Quarter to Half Wavelength:
• peaks, lags
by
• Poynting vector emerges
• Fields propagate as a free wave
Phase 3 – Half to 3/4 Wavelength:
• Energy self-propagates in fields
• Fields begin decay without new input
Phase 4 – Final 1/4 Wavelength:
• Smooth decay of ,
(Taylor fall)
• Radiated energy decays via in
Phase Relationships Summary
Component | Phase | Notes |
---|---|---|
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Leads ![]() ![]() |
Generated by charge acceleration |
![]() |
Follows ![]() |
Induced by moving charge |
![]() |
Peaks when both ![]() ![]() |
Indicates power flow direction and amplitude |
Charge Motion | Exists during first 1/4 λ | Only active during emission impulse |
Pulse Envelope | 1/4 λ rise + 1/4 λ fall | Sets the fundamental frequency of the photon |
Propagation and Temporal Advance
The electromagnetic field responds with a wave that propagates at speed c=1/√ε0μ0. However, due to the smooth onset of the charge’s acceleration and the displacement current effects in the near field, a leading edge forms prior to the main energy transfer event, approximately ¼ wavelength ahead.
This early onset reflects the vacuum’s ability to respond causally to charge acceleration prior to peak energy injection.
Impedance Interaction and Wave Transfer
The interaction of this structured wavelet with media depends on the impedance differential between the propagation path and the interacting medium. For example:
- Absorption: Occurs when the wave enters a medium of lower impedance, allowing current induction and energy transfer.
- Reflection: Arises when the wave encounters higher impedance or open-field boundaries.
- Phase Reversal: Happens at impedance mismatches where reactive components dominate, re-radiating energy with phase delay (∼π).
Experimental Implications
- High-resolution experiments (e.g., single-photon interferometry, cavity QED) could detect asymmetric emission envelopes.
- Field-based simulations using variable ε0(x,t)μ0(x,t) can model how field gradients influence the formation of leading and trailing wavelets.
- Antenna design may benefit from this by shaping input pulses to match field admittance profiles for efficient radiation or absorption.
Conclusion
This CA framework reframes electromagnetic radiation as localized, asymmetric wavelet events shaped by charge motion and vacuum admittance. Rooted in Maxwell’s equations and informed by impedance-centric reasoning, it offers new insights into photon emission, radiative coupling, and wave-medium interactions, paving the way for advanced experimental and theoretical explorations.