Co-relation between interference and polarization

In summary: The pattern may be slightly different in the first case due to the polarizer, but the overall interference effect would still be present. In summary, the interference pattern would form regardless of the polarization of the photons and whether or not a polarizer is placed before the slits.
  • #1
San K
911
1
Let's say we send two photons at same time through double slit:

Would interference pattern form if:

1. Both the photons are of different polarization? (i.e. one left polarized and the other right)
2. Both the photons are of same polarization?
 
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  • #2
San K said:
Let's say we send two photons at same time through double slit:

Would interference pattern form if:

1. Both the photons are of different polarization? (i.e. one left polarized and the other right)
2. Both the photons are of same polarization?

1. There will be a degree of destructive interference, so a distorted pattern would emerge.
2. Yes.
 
  • #3
DrChinese said:
1. There will be a degree of destructive interference, so a distorted pattern would emerge.
2. Yes.

thanks Dr Chinese.

now if we modify the double slit experiment (one photon at a time) as below:

1. we place a polarizer before the slits
2. we don't place a polarizer (i.e. simply the "classic" double slit, single photon at a time experiment)

Would the interference pattern between 1 and 2 look different?
 
  • #4
San K said:
thanks Dr Chinese.

now if we modify the double slit experiment (one photon at a time) as below:

1. we place a polarizer before the slits
2. we don't place a polarizer (i.e. simply the "classic" double slit, single photon at a time experiment)

Would the interference pattern between 1 and 2 look different?

Should get an interference pattern in both cases.
 

What is interference?

Interference is a phenomenon that occurs when two or more waves interact with each other. This can result in either constructive interference, where the waves reinforce each other, or destructive interference, where the waves cancel each other out.

What is polarization?

Polarization refers to the orientation of the electric field of a wave. When a wave is polarized, its electric field oscillates in a specific direction. This can be either linear, circular, or elliptical polarization.

How are interference and polarization related?

The interference pattern created by two or more waves depends on their polarization. If the waves have the same polarization, they will interfere constructively or destructively. If the waves have different polarizations, they will not interfere with each other.

What are some real-world applications of interference and polarization?

Interference and polarization are important concepts in fields such as optics, telecommunications, and astronomy. They are used in technologies such as polarized sunglasses, liquid crystal displays, and radio and satellite communications.

How can we measure the correlation between interference and polarization?

The correlation between interference and polarization can be measured by analyzing the interference pattern created by two polarized waves. This can be done using instruments such as polarimeters, which can measure the degree and orientation of polarization, and interferometers, which can measure the interference pattern.

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