Wave Polarization: Can EM Wave Be Circular & Horiz?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the nature of electromagnetic wave polarization, specifically whether an electromagnetic wave can exhibit both circular and horizontal polarization simultaneously. The scope includes theoretical considerations of wave properties and polarization states.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if an electromagnetic wave can be both circularly polarized and horizontally polarized at the same time.
  • Another participant suggests that a mix of polarizations is possible, proposing a specific ratio of 60% plane to 40% circular.
  • A different participant asserts that a circularly polarized wave inherently contains both horizontal and vertical polarization components.
  • It is noted that completely circularly polarized light can be decomposed into two orthogonal linear components in quadrature, and that any pure polarization state can be expressed in terms of two orthogonal basis states, including linear, circular, and elliptical polarizations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple competing views regarding the relationship between circular and horizontal polarization, and no consensus has been reached on the original question posed.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the implications of mixing polarization states or the definitions of the terms used, which may affect the interpretations of their claims.

sauravrt
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Can an electromagnetic wave be both circular polarized and horizontal or E polarized at the same time?
 
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It can be a mix, such as 60% plane, 40% circular.
 
A circular polarized wave has both horizontal and vertical polarization, is this correct?
 
Completely circularly polarized light can be decomposed into two orthogonal linear components in quadrature. In general, any pure polarization state can be decomposed into two orthogonal basis states (linear, circular, elliptical, etc).
 

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