Definitions for "Circular polarization"
Two linearly polarized, orthogonal (right angle) light beams that are 90 degrees out of phase. Produced from unpolarized light by a linear polarizer aligned 45 degrees from a major axis of a quarter wave plate.
Two orthogonal linearly polarized waves of equal amplitude and 90 degrees out of phase are radiated simultaneously. The electric field vectors rotate around a circle. If the horizontal E field vector leads the vertical E field vector as seen in the direction of rotation, the polarization is said to be Clockwise Circular (right-hand circular polarization). If the horizontal E field vector lags the vertical E field vector as seen in the direction of rotation, the polarization is said to be Counter clockwise Circular.
The radiation of radio energy in a circular patterns similar to sound wave propagation, or the circular ripples in water caused by a stone being dropped into it.