The Third Polarization of Light ()
Abstract
We are all
taught that there are only two polarizations of light because Maxwell’s equations
only support two polarizations. This is mathematically true for the electromagnetic
fields, but we have learned since the days of Maxwell that the “real” electromagnetic
field is not the electromagnetic field tensor Fμv (composed of Electric and Magnetic field terms) but rather
the electromagnetic vector potential Aμ.
When considered carefully, this requires a third polarization of light with very
unusual properties. This third polarization of light does not generate electric
or magnetic fields but should be detectable by its impact on supercurrents or quantum
interference. It is also unavoidable since it automatically appears under Lorentz
transformations to different moving frames.
Share and Cite:
Hutchin, R. (2015) The Third Polarization of Light.
Optics and Photonics Journal,
5, 29-32. doi:
10.4236/opj.2015.52004.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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