Dielectric dispersion in pure polar liquids at very high radio-frequencies I. Measurements on water, methyl and ethyl alcohols

Abstract The results are given of some measurements of the absorption coefficient and refractive index of water, methyl and ethyl alcohols at wave-lengths of 6·2 mm, 1·24 cm and 3·21 cm over the temperature range —10 to 50°C, including some observations on water in the supercooled state. The method used is based upon the fact that the rate of attenuation of radio-frequency energy along a wave-guide filled with the liquid is dependent upon both the absorption coefficient and the refractive index when the guide is operated near to the cut-off condition. The electrical characteristics of water vary in a continuous manner through the normal freezing-point of 0°C down to at least —8°C. The measurements indicate that both alcohols, like water, have relatively high atomic polarizations.