| Abstract: | In this paper, we propose a hyperbolic system of first‐order pseudo‐differential equations as generalization of the Maxwell equation. We state basic properties of this system corresponding to the ones of the (usual) Maxwell equation and explain that several known generalized Maxwell equations presented by some researchers can be integrated into the system. Namely, their equations can be regarded as our equation in special cases. Their generalized equations admit not only transversal but also longitudinal waves and are examined from the physical viewpoint. Using the present system, from the mathematical viewpoint, we interpret the meaning for presence of the longitudinal wave (with the transversal one) in their generalized equations. This presence means existence of more than one non‐zero characteristic root for the system (ie, non‐zero eigenvalue of the symbol). We prove also that our system becomes a first‐order expression of (generalized) elastic equations. Furthermore, it is shown that introducing the elastic equations implies expressing the generalized Maxwell equations by the potentials. |
