Parallel light rays through a sprial wave plate diverge?

In summary, the conversation discusses the behavior of parallel light rays when exiting a spiral wave plate. The first image shows the bending of a light ray, and the question is raised whether this will cause a change in the light's angular momentum. It is then mentioned that there is no interface between the glass parts, leading to the conclusion that the behavior of the light is nonsensical. The speaker also mentions that the symmetry is circular and the material is homogeneous, so there should be no bending of light.
  • #1
Spinnor
Gold Member
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Do parallel light rays diverge if ever so slightly upon exiting a spiral wave plate? See image below.

phase-plate.jpg


450px-Spiral-phase-plate.png


Images from,

https://www.google.com/search?q=spiral+phase+plate&safe=off&sa=X&es_sm=122&biw=1360&bih=649&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&ei=xEGDVcaKFYLV-AHZop_IAw&ved=0CC0QsAQ#imgrc=V_wYVTQHs9_JcM%3A;MIMazroQRD_VYM;http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2F1%2F1f%2FSpiral-phase-plate.png;http%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FAngular_momentum_of_light;1047;382

If there is divergence does that change the angular mementum of the light?

Thanks for any help!
 
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  • #2
If there is no interface between those glas parts where would you expect any special things but a straight beam?
It makes no sense from the very beginning.
 
  • #3
Omega0 said:
If there is no interface between those glas parts where would you expect any special things but a straight beam?
It makes no sense from the very beginning.

The first image above seems to show a typical light ray bending.
 
  • #4
Spinnor said:
The first image above seems to show a typical light ray bending.
Come on... the symmetry is circular and waves here are as I expect them...it seems to be homogenieous material ... you can find silly ways to bend light but in the end you will have nothing but light, may be polarized. From symmetry reasons the outcouming is nonsense. If it is homgeneous stuff.
May be harsh critics but I think Spinnor will report about it.
 

Related to Parallel light rays through a sprial wave plate diverge?

1. How does a spiral wave plate affect the direction of parallel light rays?

A spiral wave plate is an optical component that has a spiral pattern on its surface. When parallel light rays pass through the plate, the direction of the light rays is altered due to the varying thickness of the plate along the spiral pattern. This results in the light rays diverging from each other.

2. What is the purpose of using a spiral wave plate?

A spiral wave plate is used to manipulate the polarization of light. By altering the direction of the light rays, the plate can change the polarization state of the light. This is useful in various optical applications, such as in polarizing filters and liquid crystal displays.

3. How does the thickness of the spiral wave plate affect the divergence of the light rays?

The thickness of the spiral wave plate plays a crucial role in the amount of divergence of the light rays. A thicker plate will cause a greater change in the direction of the light rays, resulting in a larger divergence angle.

4. Can a spiral wave plate be used to converge parallel light rays?

No, a spiral wave plate is specifically designed to diverge parallel light rays. It is not possible to use a spiral wave plate to converge light rays as the changes in thickness along the spiral pattern will always result in divergence.

5. Are there any other factors that can affect the divergence of parallel light rays passing through a spiral wave plate?

Yes, the material properties of the plate, such as its birefringence and refractive index, can also impact the divergence of the light rays. Additionally, the incident angle and wavelength of the light can also affect the divergence angle.

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