What does this research mean for the field?

The Poynting vector should be defined as E×B/μ0 instead of E×H to accurately account for the role of bound charges in electromagnetic momentum. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.NOVEL_FINDING. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.CHALLENGES_CONSENSUS.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to clarify the definition of the Poynting vector in relation to bound charges and electromagnetic momentum.

February 21, 2026

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The Poynting vector should be E×B/μ0 not E×H

KMKirk T. McDonaldPrinceton University

Key Points

The aim is to clarify the definition of the Poynting vector in relation to bound charges and electromagnetic momentum.
Revisiting Poynting's analysis of electromagnetic concepts
Examining the role of bound charges in energy definitions
Analyzing implications for the Abraham-Minkowski controversy
Clarifies that the Poynting vector is better expressed as E×B/μ0 instead of E×H
Highlights the significance of bound charges in determining energy flux
Sheds light on longstanding debates surrounding electromagnetic momentum

Abstract

Editor's Note: This Note revisits Poynting's analysis of electromagnetic work, energy density, and energy flux in matter. While Poynting focused on the interaction between fields and free charges, the author argues that making the role of bound charges explicit sheds light on the Abraham–Minkowski controversy over the proper definition of electromagnetic momentum.

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The Poynting vector should be E×B/μ0 not E×H

Key Points

Abstract

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