Photon Polarization: Explained

In summary, the basis of photon polarization is that electromagnetic waves are transverse, meaning they have two polarization states. Photons are generated when a charge moves, and their polarization depends on how the charge moves - either linearly or circularly. The reason for this is due to the helicity operator eigenvalues and gauge invariance. However, the term "photon polarization" may seem contradictory as polarization is typically seen in waves while photons are particles.
  • #1
preet0283
19
0
can some one explain 2 me the basis of photon polarization ...?
 
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  • #2
See any freshman physics book, or one more advanced, to learn that electromagnetic waves are transverse, and that does it --transverse => two polarization states. Very basic stuff.
Regards,
Reilly Atkinson
 
  • #3
preet0283 said:
can some one explain 2 me the basis of photon polarization ...?

Photons are "generated" when a charge moves in a specific way. If
the charge moves up and down, the photons that fly off will be polarized
linearly.

If the charge spins around, they will be polarized circularly and one of two
ways depending on which way it spins, CW or CCW.
 
  • #4
It's called "helicity operator eigenvalues". Why the photon has two instead of 3, well, it's called "gauge invariance". "Photon polarization" is a bit of an oxymoron, as "polarization" is typical to wavelike phenomena, while "photon" is a particle.

Daniel.
 

Related to Photon Polarization: Explained

1. What is photon polarization?

Photon polarization is the direction in which a photon's electric and magnetic fields oscillate. This property is intrinsic to photons and can be manipulated through certain interactions with matter.

2. How is photon polarization related to light polarization?

Light polarization is a macroscopic phenomenon that describes the direction in which light waves oscillate. Photon polarization is a microscopic explanation for this phenomenon, as light is composed of individual photons with specific polarization orientations.

3. How is photon polarization measured?

Photon polarization can be measured through various techniques, such as using polarizers or interferometers. These methods involve analyzing the intensity or interference patterns of polarized light.

4. What are the applications of photon polarization?

Photon polarization has various applications in fields such as telecommunications, quantum computing, and medical imaging. It is also crucial in understanding the behavior of light in different materials and environments.

5. Can photon polarization be changed?

Yes, photon polarization can be changed through interactions with matter, such as passing through a polarizing filter or being reflected off certain surfaces. This property also plays a crucial role in quantum information processing and communication.

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