Circularly Polarized Wave: Poynting Vector Analysis

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The Poynting vector for a circularly polarized wave is not circularly polarized; it is directed along the direction of wave propagation. Unlike linearly polarized waves, where the magnitude of the Poynting vector fluctuates periodically, the Poynting vector for circularly polarized waves maintains a constant net power without fluctuation. This distinction highlights the differences in energy flow between the two types of polarization. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for applications in wave propagation and electromagnetic theory. The analysis of the Poynting vector provides insight into the behavior of energy in circularly polarized waves.
xnoiz
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In case of a circularly polarized wave, is the poynting vector also circularly polarized?

If not what happens in this case?
 
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no, the poynting vector is directed in the direction of propagation.
 
xnoiz said:
In case of a circularly polarized wave, is the poynting vector also circularly polarized?

If not what happens in this case?
One difference is that for a uniform linearly polarized wave, magnitude of Poynting vector fluctuates periodically between zero and maximum at twice the wave frequency. For a similar circularly polarized wave there is no fluctuation in net power.
 
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