Representation of the polarization loci in the inverse circular polarization ratio plane of a wave propagating in several anisotropic media

We investigate the change of polarization as a wave propagates in an anisotropic medium. Previously, such a polarization effect has been represented in the complex polarization ratio plane. We find the inverse circular polarization ratio plane is a more convenient representation. In this plane, the change of polarization as the wave propagates is shown to be a circle. The change of polarization loci for three media, biaxial medium, chiral medium and magnetoionic medium, are studied. We find that the axes of the polarization ellipse do not change when the wave propagates in the biaxial medium for a wave of suitable initial polarization, and the axial ratio remains unchanged when the wave propagates in the chiral medium. The results are discussed and illustrated.