Can a wave rotate about its axis?

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The discussion centers on the concept of whether a wave, particularly a transverse wave, can rotate about its longitudinal axis. While the idea of wave rotation is introduced, participants note that there is no mechanism for such rotation in typical wave behavior. Circularly polarized light is mentioned as an example of a wave that exhibits a form of rotation, which can be induced through specific materials or effects. The practical applications of circularly polarized light are highlighted, including its use in photography and optical devices. Overall, the conversation explores the theoretical aspects of wave behavior and its implications in various fields.
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Can a wave rotate about its axis??

Can a transverse wave "rotate" about its longitudial axis (kind of like an airplane's "roll" maneuver)?

If it could, i don't think we could detect it; if it did, i don't think anything will really get affected. But could it?? Not that it would...i mean, there's nothing making it rotate (or is there something??)...but could it?

For example, when light diffracts in the air--well, it spreads, but could the wave itself "rotate" about its longitudinal axis (with all that spreading and diffracting)? not that it would affect anything, but could it??
 
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bomba923 said:
Can a transverse wave "rotate" about its longitudial axis (kind of like an airplane's "roll" maneuver)?

U refer to a plane wave...??I wouldn't call that "wave rotation".Other things wan rotate,e.g.VECTORS... :wink:

bomba923 said:
For example, when light diffracts in the air--well, it spreads,

Can u please expose shortly the theory which asserts that light diffracts in the air...?Maybe i should read again those 350 pages in Born & Wolf...

Daniel.
 
A circularly polarized light wave does what you want.
Regards,
Reilly Atkinson
 
To make a linearly polarized beam rotate, you make it go through an "optically active" material or use the magnetic Faraday effect. The difference between the two are being discussed here :

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=62808

Though the effect is not very important in natural systems, it is extremely important for many optical devices.
 
Circular polarisers are used in photography to deepen blue skies and reduce reflections on plane surfaces, - linear polarisers do the same job but tend to interfere with autofocus and TTL metering systems.
 

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