Observation of Polarization Reversal and Electron Cyclotron Damping Directly Associated with Obliquely Propagating Left-Hand Polarized Wave

Abstract

The polarization reversal from a left-hand (LHPW) to a right-hand polarized wave (RHPW) and the resultant electron cyclotron damping of the LHPW are experimentally observed for the first time. Our experimental results indicate that the polarization reversal arises simultaneously with the conversion of the propagation angle of the wave, in which finite-plasma boundary conditions are considered to be inherent.