Comment on "Poynting vector controversy in axion modified electrodynamics"

Abstract

In a recent publication, Tobar, McAllister, and Goryachev claim that using an alternative definition of the Poynting vector can dramatically enhance the sensitivity of their proposed axion dark matter detector. While the choice of Poynting vector is indeed ambiguous, it cannot affect physical results, such as the reading on a voltmeter, as long as the same definition is used consistently. I explain this point in detail, and locate the specific errors in their calculation.