Terminology » RF Basics » Linear, Circular, and Elliptical Polarization: A Comprehensive Comparison

Linear, Circular, and Elliptical Polarization: A Comprehensive Comparison

polarization electromagnetic wave circular linear elliptical

An electromagnetic wave is said to be polarized in the direction of the Electric field (E) vector. The polarization type varies based on the variation of the tip of the E vector while propagating in the medium. The purpose of having different polarizations is to make efficient use of the spectrum using frequency re-use.

Each type of polarization has its own unique characteristics and applications in various fields such as communication, radar, imaging, and antenna design. Let’s compare linear vs. circular vs. elliptical polarized light and explore the differences between these polarization types.

Linear Polarization

Polarization of the wave is called linear polarization when the tip of the E vector describes a straight line with time. Here, the electric field oscillates in a single direction along a straight line. This type is often used for domestic/non-Intelsat type of satellites.

Linear polarization comes in two types: horizontal and vertical.

Examples:

  • A horizontally polarized antenna sends out electromagnetic waves with the electric field oscillating horizontally.
  • Polarized sunglasses are designed to block light waves vibrating in certain orientations, allowing only light waves vibrating in a specific direction to pass through. This reduces glare from surfaces like water or roads, which predominantly reflect horizontally polarized light.

linear vs circular vs elliptical polarization Image alt: linear vs circular vs elliptical polarization

Circular Polarization

Polarization of the wave is called Circular polarization when the tip of the E vector describes a circle with time. Here, the electric field rotates in a circular manner perpendicular to the direction of propagation. The wave is referred to as a circularly polarised plane wave. It is used in Intelsat type of satellites. In this circular type of polarised wave, the E vector does not vary in intensity when it rotates.

Circular polarization will have two types: left-hand circular polarization and right-hand circular polarization.

Examples:

  • Circularly polarized antennas are commonly used in satellite communication and GPS systems. These antennas emit waves that rotate either clockwise (right-handed) or counterclockwise (left-handed) as they propagate.
  • Circular polarization is also used in 3D glasses for watching 3D movies. The glasses have lenses that allow only one type of circularly polarized light to pass through, ensuring that each eye sees a slightly different image, creating the illusion of depth.

Elliptical Polarization

Polarization of the wave is called elliptical polarization when the tip of the E vector describes an ellipse with time. Here, the electric field traces an elliptical path. It is a combination of linear and circular polarization. In this type of polarization, the E vector constantly changes both magnitude and direction. This wave is called an elliptically polarised plane wave.

Examples:

  • Elliptically polarized waves are commonly used in radar systems for various applications like weather monitoring and aircraft detection. The elliptical polarization allows for better discrimination between different types of targets and reduces the effects of signal fading caused by reflections.
  • Medical imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) use elliptically polarized radiofrequency (RF) pulses to selectively excite specific tissues for imaging while minimizing interference from surrounding structures.

Difference Between Linear, Circular, and Elliptical Polarization

AspectLinear PolarizationCircular PolarizationElliptical Polarization
Orientation of Electric FieldElectric field oscillates in a single direction along a straight line.Electric field rotates in a circular manner perpendicular to the direction of propagation.Electric field traces an elliptical path, combining linear and circular polarization.
RepresentationCan be represented as horizontal, vertical, or any angle in between.Represented by a constant magnitude vector rotating at a constant rate.Represented by an elliptical path traced by the electric field vector.
TypesHorizontal, vertical, diagonal, or any other angle.Right-handed circular polarization (clockwise) or left-handed circular polarization (counterclockwise).Right-handed elliptical polarization or left-handed elliptical polarization.
TransmissionMaintains its polarization orientation in free space propagation.Changes polarization orientation periodically as it propagates.Changes both orientation and magnitude of polarization as it propagates.
Impedance MatchingMay require special consideration for impedance matching in certain applications.Impedance matching is straightforward due to its constant polarization state.May require more complex impedance matching due to changing polarization characteristics.
ConversionCan be converted to other types using specific waveguides or components.Can be converted to other types using appropriate components.Can be converted to linear or circular polarization using various methods.
ApplicationsCommonly used in antennas, communication systems, and polarization-sensitive devices.Used in satellite communication, GPS, and circularly polarized antennas.Found in radar systems, medical imaging, and some communication systems.

Conclusion

This comparison outlines the differences among linear, circular, and elliptical polarization in terms of their electric field orientation, representation, transmission behavior, applications, conversion methods, and impedance matching requirements. Each type of polarization offers unique advantages and is chosen based on the specific requirements of the application. Understanding the properties and behaviors of linear, circular, and elliptical polarizations is essential for designing and implementing various electromagnetic systems across a wide range of fields.