Polarization of Electromagnetic wave

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the polarization of electromagnetic waves, specifically addressing the conditions under which a wave is considered linearly, circularly, or elliptically polarized. Participants explore the implications of phase differences that do not conform to the typical definitions of linear or circular polarization.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that a wave is linearly polarized if its components have a phase difference of n*∏ and circularly polarized if the phase difference is n*∏/2, questioning the case when the phase difference is neither.
  • Another participant suggests that the wave may be elliptical, referencing its use in RF contexts.
  • A different participant reiterates the elliptical polarization concept, noting that it involves a phase difference of n*∏/2 and differing amplitudes of the components.
  • Another contribution asserts that both linear and circular polarization can lead to elliptical polarization, emphasizing the vector addition aspect and referencing Lissajous Figures as analogous to polarization patterns.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views regarding the nature of polarization when the phase difference is not clearly defined as linear or circular. The discussion remains unresolved with no consensus on the implications of the phase difference.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not clarify the specific conditions or assumptions that might affect the definitions of polarization types, nor do they resolve the mathematical implications of the phase differences discussed.

najeeb
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Dear friends i know that a wave is linearly polarized if its components have a phase difference of n*∏ and is circularly polarized if phase difference is n*∏/2. But what if phase difference is neither ∏ nor ∏/2? like for E= ax exp(-j(βy-∏/4)) + azexp(-j(βy-∏/2))... thanks in advance...
 
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Try Elliptical?
It's the term used in RF.
 
sophiecentaur said:
Try Elliptical?
It's the term used in RF.

In eliptical polarization there is a phase difference of n*∏/2 and the amplitudes of the components are different.
 
Both ways will produce elliptical polarisation. After all, it's only adding / resolving vectors.
[Edit: look at some Lissajous Figures, they will show the way that patterns can be obtained. They are directly analogous to what happens with polarisation]
 
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