Physics – General Physics
Scientific paper
2008-09-18
Physics
General Physics
No figures
Scientific paper
10.1088/1464-4258/11/6/065701
Recent studies show that the angular momentum, both spin and orbital, of rotating light beams possesses counter-intuitive characteristics. We present a new approach to the question of orbital angular momentum of light based on the complex massless scalar field representation of light. The covariant equation for the scalar field is treated in rotating system using the general relativistic framework. First we show the equivalence of the U(1) gauge current for the scalar field with the Poynting vector continuity equation for paraxial light, and then apply the formalism to the calculation of the orbital angular momentum of rotating light beams. If the difference between the co-, contra-, and physical quantities is properly accounted for there does not result any paradox in the orbital angular momentum of rotating light. An artificial analogue of the paradoxical situation could be constructed but it is wrong within the present formalism. It is shown that the orbital angular momentum of rotating beam comprising of modes with opposite azimuthal indices corresponds to that of rigid rotation. A short review on the electromagnetism in noninertial systems is presented to motivate a fully covariant Maxwell field approach in rotating system to address the rotating light phenomenon.
No associations
LandOfFree
Rotating light, OAM paradox and relativistic complex scalar field does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Rotating light, OAM paradox and relativistic complex scalar field, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Rotating light, OAM paradox and relativistic complex scalar field will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-280988