Simulating Circular Polarization with a Christmas Tree Bead Strand

[DaveC426913]

Yesterday I was busy inadvertantly simulating circular polarization of light.

We were taking down the Christimas tree including a very long strand of beads. The strand was composed of 4 strands of beads (each like a pearl necklace) woven in a helix.

When we (my wife & I) started at one end to unravel the 4 strands from each other, the net result was build up up circular torque as we moved down the length of the strand (it was > 100 feet long). It built up like the knots that form in the elastic of a balsa airplane when you wind it up.

Each time I lifted the strand, the buildup of circular tension would release, and a circular pulse would race down the length of the strand for several dozen feet.

OK, probably not a perfect analogy for polarized light, but cool nonetheless.

 

[kirovman]

Hehe. Oh damn I got an exam which may include a small part on circular polarization in 10 hours time! Time for bed.

 

[Graeme Robinson]

That sounds like a really interesting experience! It's amazing how everyday objects and activities can sometimes mimic scientific phenomena. Your Christmas tree bead strand definitely sounds like it created a similar effect to circular polarization. The way the circular torque built up and released, causing a circular pulse to race down the length of the strand, is reminiscent of how circularly polarized light travels. It's always fun to discover these little moments of scientific simulation in our daily lives. Thanks for sharing your experience!