Rotation of electromagnetic fields and the nature of optical angular momentum

Barnett, S.M. (2010) Rotation of electromagnetic fields and the nature of optical angular momentum. Journal of Modern Optics, 57(14-15), pp. 1339-1343. (doi: 10.1080/09500341003654427)

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Abstract

The association of spin and orbital angular momenta of light with its polarization and helical phase fronts is now well established. The problems in linking this with electromagnetic theory, as expressed in Maxwell's equations, are rather less well known. We present a simple analysis of the problems involved in defining spin and orbital angular momenta for electromagnetic fields and discuss some of the remaining challenges. Crucial to our investigation is the duplex symmetry between the electric and magnetic fields.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Barnett, Professor Stephen
Authors: Barnett, S.M.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Physics and Astronomy
Journal Name:Journal of Modern Optics
Publisher:Taylor and Francis
ISSN:0950-0340
ISSN (Online):1362-3044
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2010 Taylor and Francis
First Published:First published in Journal of Modern Optics 57(14-15):1339-1343
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher

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