Propagation of electromagnetic waves in inhomogeneous plasmas

The reflection and transmission coefficients for an electromagnetic beam propagating in an inhomogeneous plasma are calculated analytically using the Magnus approximation in different physical configurations. The theoretical predictions for such coefficients are expressed in simple analytical form, and are compared with the exact results obtained by numerical solution of the wave propagation equations, using the Berreman 4 x 4 matrix method. It is shown that the theoretical approach is able to reproduce the correct results for reflection and transmission coefficients over a wide range of physical parameters. The accuracy of the theoretical analysis, at different orders of approximation, is also discussed. (author)