Linear Polarization Interference: Can It Happen?

AI Thread Summary
Linear polarization interference occurs when two linearly polarized waves, one aligned with the x-axis and the other with the y-axis, interact. In a vacuum, these waves do not interfere because their electric fields are orthogonal, meaning they do not combine to form a resultant wave. The absence of matter that could alter the polarization is crucial, as any medium could potentially change the alignment and allow for interference. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding wave properties and polarization in physics. Ultimately, the consensus is that without external factors, linear polarization does not lead to interference.
dazaireta
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Two waves are linearly polarized. The electric field of one wave is aligned with the x-axis and the other is aligned with the y-axis. In the absence of matter that might change the polarization, can these waves interfere with each other?
 
Science news on Phys.org
You need to show some effort - we aren't here to do your work for you. So, what do you think, and why?
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes Cryo and dazaireta
I got it, thank you
 

Similar threads

Does a material change the direction of polarization of light?
Replies
7
Views
2K
I How Does Light Remain After Polarization Despite Changes in Its Electric Field?
Replies
10
Views
3K
Photon Polarization: Questions & Answers
Replies
23
Views
10K
I A question about density matricies
Replies
7
Views
440
Trying to Understand the Polarization of light
Replies
6
Views
13K
I How to "think" of a polarizer in matrix representation?
Replies
3
Views
2K
Effects of coherence length on optical interference filter
2
Replies
66
Views
5K
Why does the polarity of a bass guitar recording vary?
Replies
10
Views
2K
I Energy of Electromagnetic Waves in Destructive Interference
2
Replies
71
Views
8K
I Questions About Bragg's Law of X-Ray Diffraction
2
Replies
54
Views
10K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top