Wave Polarization: Can EM Wave Be Circular & Horiz?

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SUMMARY

An electromagnetic wave can exhibit both circular polarization and horizontal (E) polarization simultaneously, with possible combinations such as 60% plane and 40% circular. A circularly polarized wave inherently contains both horizontal and vertical polarization components. Furthermore, any pure polarization state, including linear, circular, and elliptical, can be decomposed into two orthogonal basis states, demonstrating the versatility of electromagnetic wave polarization.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave properties
  • Knowledge of polarization states (linear, circular, elliptical)
  • Familiarity with wave decomposition techniques
  • Basic principles of optics and wave behavior
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical representation of circular polarization
  • Study the decomposition of electromagnetic waves into orthogonal components
  • Explore applications of polarization in optical systems
  • Learn about the implications of mixed polarization states in communication technologies
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, optical engineers, and students studying electromagnetic theory or wave optics will benefit from this discussion.

sauravrt
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Can an electromagnetic wave be both circular polarized and horizontal or E polarized at the same time?
 
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It can be a mix, such as 60% plane, 40% circular.
 
A circular polarized wave has both horizontal and vertical polarization, is this correct?
 
Completely circularly polarized light can be decomposed into two orthogonal linear components in quadrature. In general, any pure polarization state can be decomposed into two orthogonal basis states (linear, circular, elliptical, etc).
 

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