Theory

This page will outline some candidate theories of operation (or non-operation).

Proponent Theories

• Roger Shawyer's, EM Drive creator's theory
• Prof. Juan Yang's theory
• Dr. Harold Sonny White's Quantum vacuum plasma thruster model (QVP thruster)
• Evanescent waves<ref>2/2/15 post by @aero modeled evanescent waves using MEEP. Conclusion was that, due to rapid dropoff at the frustum surface, these were of insufficient magnitude to explain the thrust.</ref>
• Transfer of linear momentum from the Quantum Vacuum to magnetoelectric and chiral molecules <ref>http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=36313.msg1330846#msg1330846 and http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=36313.msg1333392#msg1333392 </ref>
• @notsosureofit Hypothesis
• Mike McCulloch's MiHsC Theory
• Curving Rf beams<ref>Post by @aero</ref> - The magnitude of the bending needed, was not shown by the thermal camera images taken at Eagleworks.

Debunking Theories

These theories should be explained, then debunked with the simplest explanation, with a link to a dedicated page to show the work or work in progress that backs up that explanation.

Exact Standing Wave Solution of Maxwell's Equations

On 8/5/14, Greg Egan posted an exact solution for the resonant modes (having azimuthal quantum number m=0, constant electromagnetic field variation in the azimuthal direction) of a cavity in the shape of a truncated cone with spherical ends. He calculated the forces and showed a proof that the net force is zero and therefore that there is no thrust force in a resonant electromagnetic cavity of any arbitrary shape, and for any arbitrary mode shape, when the cavity is analyzed according to the standing wave solution of Maxwell's equations (assuming no sources or sinks in the cavity).

Experimental Artifact

• Measuring error
• Thermal effects
• Mechanical vibration
• Magnetic effects with environment

These are discussed in more detail at Possible Error Sources.

References

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