Question

Circularly polarized light is produced if the amplitudes of the ordinary and extraordinary rays are equal and there is a phase difference of:

• A. $180^\circ$
• B. $90^\circ$
• C. $45^\circ$
• D. $0^\circ$

Hint:

Quarter-wave plates introduce a $90^\circ$ phase shift to convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Circularly polarized light is obtained when:
1. The amplitudes of the ordinary and extraordinary waves are equal.
2. The phase difference between the two waves is $90^\circ$ or $\frac{\pi}{2}$ radians.