The Stokes Vector

The Stokes vector represents a polarized wave in terms of four 'Stokes parameters'. The Stokes parameters of a light wave are measurable quantities defined as

1. – Total flux density.

2. – The difference between the flux density transmitted by a linear polarizer oriented parallel to the x – axis and one oriented parallel to the y – axis. The x and y axes are usually selected to be parallel to the horizontal and vertical axes in the laboratory.

3. – The difference between the flux density transmitted by a linear polarizer oriented at 45 Degrees to the x axis and one oriented at 135 Degrees.

4. – The difference between the flux density transmitted by a right circular polarizer and a left circular polarizer.

   These are illustrated below:

   

   The Stokes vector may be written in vector form, for example:

   Horizontal Polarization:

   Vertical Polarization:

   +45 Degrees Polarization:

   -45 Degrees Polarization:

   Right Circular Polarization:

   Left Circular Polarization: