körpolarizáció

Körpolarizáció, also known as circular polarization, is a type of electromagnetic wave polarization where the electric field vector of the wave rotates in a circular path as the wave propagates. This rotation occurs in a plane perpendicular to the direction of propagation. The tip of the electric field vector traces out a helix.

There are two types of circular polarization: left-handed circular polarization (LHCP) and right-handed circular polarization (RHCP). The direction of rotation depends on the observer's perspective. If you are looking at the source of the wave, a left-handed rotation means the electric field vector points in a counter-clockwise direction, and a right-handed rotation means it points in a clockwise direction.

Circularly polarized waves can be produced by combining two linearly polarized waves of equal amplitude that are perpendicular to each other and have a phase difference of 90 degrees (π/2 radians). Alternatively, they can be generated using specialized antennas like helical antennas or patch antennas designed for circular polarization.

Circular polarization has various applications. In telecommunications, it is used to reduce signal fading and interference, particularly in satellite communications and GPS systems, as it is less susceptible to orientation changes of the transmitting or receiving antennas. It is also employed in some optical systems, such as 3D movie glasses, where it helps to separate images for each eye. In radar systems, circular polarization can help to distinguish between different types of targets and reduce clutter from rain and other weather phenomena.