Electromagnetism-wave polarization

Thread starter johndoe
Start date Oct 13, 2010
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Polarization

In summary, electromagnetic wave polarization refers to the orientation of the electric and magnetic fields of an electromagnetic wave, which can be manipulated through various processes to produce linear, circular, or elliptical polarization. The polarization of waves affects their behavior and properties, making it useful in applications such as reducing glare, improving visibility, and controlling signal transmission in fields like medicine, telecommunications, and technology development.

Oct 13, 2010

johndoe

Concept check:
A Right hand circular polarized wave is having the E vector circulates in the direction of the fingers with the thumb in the direction of wave propagation with its components Ey leading Ex by 90 degrees?

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Oct 13, 2010

dlgoff

Science Advisor

Gold Member

Yep

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/phyopt/polclas.html#c3"

Last edited by a moderator: Apr 25, 2017

FAQ: Electromagnetism-wave polarization

1. What is electromagnetic wave polarization?

Electromagnetic wave polarization refers to the orientation of the electric and magnetic fields of an electromagnetic wave as it propagates through space. These fields oscillate perpendicular to each other and the direction of wave propagation, and the specific orientation determines the polarization of the wave.

2. How do electromagnetic waves become polarized?

Electromagnetic waves can become polarized through various mechanisms, such as passing through a polarizing filter, reflecting off a surface at a specific angle, or being produced by a polarized source. These processes align the electric and magnetic fields in a specific direction, resulting in a polarized wave.

3. What are the different types of electromagnetic wave polarization?

The three main types of electromagnetic wave polarization are linear, circular, and elliptical. Linear polarization occurs when the electric field oscillates in a single plane, while circular polarization occurs when the electric field rotates in a circle. Elliptical polarization is a combination of both linear and circular polarization.

4. How does wave polarization affect the properties of electromagnetic waves?

The polarization of an electromagnetic wave affects its behavior and properties. For example, polarized light can be used to reduce glare and improve visibility, while polarized radio waves are used for satellite communication. The polarization of waves can also be manipulated to control their direction and intensity.

5. What are some real-world applications of electromagnetic wave polarization?

Electromagnetic wave polarization has many practical applications in various fields. For instance, polarized sunglasses are commonly used to reduce glare from reflected light. In the medical field, polarized light is used in imaging techniques such as polarized microscopy and optical coherence tomography. In telecommunications, polarization is used to improve the efficiency and quality of signal transmission. Additionally, the study of electromagnetic wave polarization is essential in understanding and developing technologies such as radar, satellite communication, and 3D movie projection.