Quantum interference with different polarization

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the quantum interference phenomenon in a double slit experiment with polarization filters at varying angles (\alpha). It is established that when polarization filters are parallel, a typical interference pattern emerges, while perpendicular filters result in no interference. The debate arises regarding filters at different angles, with Wikipedia asserting that only waves of the same polarization can interfere, while another source claims interference occurs with intensity expressed as I=I_1+I_2+2√(I_1I_2)cos(α), suggesting a diminishing interference pattern. The conflicting interpretations highlight the complexity of polarization effects in quantum mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with the double slit experiment
  • Knowledge of polarization and its effects on light waves
  • Basic mathematical skills for interpreting interference equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical derivation of interference patterns in quantum mechanics
  • Study the effects of polarization on light waves in detail
  • Explore advanced quantum optics concepts related to interference
  • Review academic papers on polarization and interference, such as the referenced arXiv document
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Physicists, quantum mechanics students, and researchers interested in the nuances of light behavior and interference patterns in quantum systems.

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Hi all,

Imagine a double slit experiment where each slit contains a polarization filter with some angle relative to each other (\alpha). If the polarization filters are parallel the usual interference pattern will emerge, and when they are perpendicular no interference pattern will emerge. What happens when they have different relative angles, though?
The problem is that I've read two different sources, Wikipedia states:
The two waves must have the same polarization to give rise to interference fringes since it is not possible for waves of different polarizations to cancel one another out or add together. Instead, when waves of different polarization are added together, they give rise to a wave of a different polarization state.

While someone answered a question saying that it did interfere and that the intensity would be:
I=I_1+I_2+2\sqrt{I_1I_2}cos(\alpha)

It claims that there are still the same interference pattern, but it simply gets closer to no interference.

So which is right?Thanks in advance
 
Science news on Phys.org
Do you have a reference for the second answer?
Also see: http://arxiv.org/pdf/1110.4309.pdf
p8 ... the argument is that the components that are aligned in polarity interfere.
 

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