Appendix B: Polarization Theory
The most general form of a wave polarization is elliptical. The B-vector of an elliptically polarized wave can be regarded from three viewpoints. Namely, it can be considered to be (1) a rotating vector, the end point of which traces out an elliptical helix whose axis lies in the direction of propagation; (2) the resultant of the B-vectors of two linearly polarized waves of the same frequency; or (3) the resultant of the oppositely rotating Bvectors of two circularly polarized waves of the same frequency. Figure B-1 illustrates the B-vector of an elliptically polarized wave at various positions in space, at a fixed instant of time. An ellipse within an x-y plane is shown at the left end of this spiraling wave. The ellipse is created by tracing the end-point (terminus) of the B-vector onto the x-y plane, during the duration of one rf cycle.