Waveplates

Applications for Half Waveplates include rotating the plane of polarization (e.g. in a laser), electro-optic modulation and as a variable ratio beamsplitter (when used in conjunction with a polarizing cube).

Waveplates are made from materials which exhibit birefringence. The velocities of the extraordinary and ordinary rays through the birefringent material vary inversely with their refractive indices. For the case of crystal quartz the extraordinary beam has a higher refractive index and therefore a slower velocity. For this reason, its direction is known as the ‘slow’ axis. Likewise, the direction of the ordinary beam is known as the ‘fast’ axis and is indicated by the marked lines on the mount.