Abstract
The energy balance in the superposition of light waves with a lossless beam splitter is analyzed along with its connection with some general relations between the parameters describing beamsplitter effects on the two incoming waves. These general relations are derived either from the electromagnetic theory or from energy conservation considerations. The apparent paradox of a symmetric beam splitter producing complementary outputs is explained. © 1985 American Association of Physics Teachers
| Original language | English |
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| Pages (from-to) | 667-670 |
| Journal | American Journal of Physics |
| Volume | 53 |
| Issue number | 7 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 1985 |
