Combining Quarter-Wave Plates: Effects & Differences

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Combining two identical quarter-wave plates can yield different results based on their configuration. When aligned in series, they function as a half-wave plate, but if there is a distance between them, phase differences arise due to varying travel distances of light waves. This setup can create interference patterns similar to those in a Michelson Interferometer. Additionally, if the plates are not bonded together, they introduce extra reflective surfaces, potentially resulting in a zero-order wave plate, which offers superior performance. The discussion highlights the importance of alignment and spacing in determining the optical properties of combined wave plates.
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If we put two identical quarter-wave plates together what will be the resulting plate? How would it be different from one of the quarter-wave plates?
 
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fermatsenigma said:
If we put two identical quarter-wave plates together what will be the resulting plate? How would it be different from one of the quarter-wave plates?

Please define "together".
 
If you put them in series with the axes aligned, you will get a half-wave plate.
 
clem said:
If you put them in series with the axes aligned, you will get a half-wave plate.
Are you sure? Have you ever tried it? Putting in series? With 1mm distance between them? Or with just a small grain of dust between them?

Y33t's question about meaning of 'together' was not so trivial...
 
Why would a distance between them affect the phase difference?
 
clem said:
Why would a distance between them affect the phase difference?

PD < wave1 < wave2

PD: propagation direction

Assume all axis are aligned, wave1 and wave2 are separated by a finite distance of d (origin of wave2 is d length right to wave1 in the PD). wave2 will travel more than wave1 in the direction of PD to reach any target along this path thus there will be a phase delay between these two waves. If there exists a target along the PD these waves will collapse and form an interference pattern on the surface. It's a modified version of the Michelson Interferometer.
 
Because of reflections.
If two plates are are not glued together with immerse fluid you have two additional reflecting planes in the middle.
 
This is the way to build a zero order wave plate, so you may have a half-wave plate or a zero order quarter wave plate. Zero order wave plate has better properties then the wave plate.
Bye the way very good question and very proper time to ask it Aug2-11
 

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