Circular polarization: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 06:55, 22 June 2005

Revision as of 21:07, 6 July 2005

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A circularly polarized wave may be resolved into two [[linear polarization|linearly polarized]] waves, of equal amplitude, in [[phase]] [[quadrature]] (90 degrees apart) and with their planes of polarization at right angles to each other.

Circular polarization may be referred to as <i>"''right-hand"</i>'' or <i>"''left-hand,"</i>'' depending on the direction in which the electric field vector rotates. When looking toward the source, right hand circular polarized light rotates clockwise as time increases, and describes a right hand helix along the propagation axis.

The term "Circularcircular Polarisationpolarization" is often used erroneously to describe mixed polarity signals used mostly in [[FM radio]] (87,5 to 108,0 MHz), where a vertical and a horizontal component are propagated simultaneously by a single or a combined array.

This has the effect of producing greater penetration into buildings and difficult reception areas than a signal with just one plane of polarisation.