Non-quantum entanglement resolves a fundamental issue in Polarization optics

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that non-quantum entanglement between polarization and spatial degrees of freedom provides a fundamental basis for determining physically valid Mueller matrices in polarization optics.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach using non-quantum entanglement to resolve the longstanding classical issue of identifying physical Mueller matrices.

Findings

Non-quantum entanglement constrains Mueller matrices to physical subset

Provides a definitive criterion for physical Mueller matrices

Bridges classical polarization optics with quantum-like entanglement concepts

Abstract

The issue raised in this paper is classical in the sense of being ancient: which subset of 4X4 matrices should be accepted as physical Mueller matrices in polarization optics? Non-quantum entanglement between the polarization and spatial degrees of freedom of an electromagnetic beam is shown to provide the physical basis to resolve this issue in a definitive manner.