Polarization fluctuations of single photon states in a slant channel with non-Kolmogorov turbulence

Polarization properties of single photon states propagating through the non-Kolmogorov turbulence in a slant channel are studied based on the degree of polarization of quantum field. The degree of polarization of single photon states for linearly polarized quantum beam propagation in a slant turbulent channel are developed. Our results show that the effects of the outer scale fluctuations of atmospheric turbulence and the wavelength difference of the beams on the polarization can be ignored and the smaller inner scale of turbulence and larger zenith angle of communication channel will lead to larger fluctuations of the polarization of single-photon states. The effects of the inner scale of turbulence on polarization of single photon states are more significant for bigger refractive-index power and bigger zenith angles.

► The degree of polarization of single photon states in a slant turbulent channel are developed. ► The effects of turbulent outer scale and wavelength difference on the polarization can be ignored. ► Bigger channel zenith angles or longer turbulent inner scale cause the larger polarization fluctuations. ► The effects of the refractive-index power on polarization of single photon states are significant.