Media with ε < 0 and μ < 0: theory and properties

This chapter presents various theoretical aspects related to left-handed media, i.e., media whose permittivity ε and permeability μ can achieve negative values simultaneously. As we have already mentioned in previous chapters, the sole possibility of achieving ε < 0 and μ < 0 prompts us to revisit even the most basic phenomena of electromagnetics and optics, one such example discussed at length being the sign of the index of refraction.