What are the two polarization states in 2D light?

In summary, A question was asked about building a 2D model of photon gas and the presence of 2 polarization states. The answer clarified that the 2D restriction applies to the motion, not the EM field of light, and that polarization in the Fermi-gas approach is interpreted differently in the particle model.
  • #1
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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  • #2
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
 

Related to What are the two polarization states in 2D light?

1. What is light polarization in 2D?

Light polarization in 2D refers to the orientation of the electric field of light waves in a two-dimensional space. This means that the electric field is confined to a single plane and does not have any components in the perpendicular direction.

2. How is light polarized in 2D?

Light can be polarized in 2D through various methods, such as passing it through a polarizing filter or reflecting it off a surface at a specific angle. In these cases, the electric field of the light waves becomes aligned in a specific direction, resulting in 2D polarization.

3. What is the significance of light polarization in 2D?

Light polarization in 2D has several practical applications, such as in optical communication and imaging. It also plays a crucial role in understanding the behavior of light in different materials and can provide insights into the properties of these materials.

4. Can all types of light be polarized in 2D?

No, not all types of light can be polarized in 2D. Only light waves that have an electric field component can be polarized in 2D. This means that light waves with a purely magnetic field or with no electric or magnetic fields cannot be polarized in 2D.

5. How is light polarization in 2D different from 3D?

The main difference between light polarization in 2D and 3D is the orientation of the electric field. In 2D, the electric field is confined to a single plane, while in 3D, it can have components in all three dimensions. This difference in orientation can affect the behavior and properties of light in different ways.

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