What are the two polarization states in 2D light?

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    2d Light Polarization
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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies that in a 2D model of light, there are two polarization states due to the restriction of motion to two dimensions, while the electromagnetic (EM) field itself propagates in a specific direction. The polarization directions are always perpendicular to the direction of propagation. The conversation also highlights the distinction between wave and particle models, noting that the Fermi-gas approach treats polarization differently than traditional wave models.

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  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave propagation
  • Familiarity with polarization concepts in physics
  • Knowledge of particle models, specifically the Fermi-gas model
  • Basic grasp of 2D spatial modeling in physics
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itaibh1
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Hello i wasn't sure if to ask this in here or in homework! I stumbled upon an assignment to build the model of photon gas in 2D space. in the answer it was stated that the light have 2 polarization states in 2D model, how come? the field have only one way to propagate regarding the wave direction.
thanks!
 
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Welcome to PF;
Really need to see the context ... but it is likely that they mean to restrict the motion to 2D, not the EM field of the light itself. The polarization directions are perpendicular to the direction of propagation.

You should also realize that the Fermi-gas approach is a particle model where ideas like "propagation" usually belong to the wave model. In the particle model, polarization is understood a bit differently:
http://farside.ph.utexas.edu/teaching/qm/lectures/node5.html
 

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