%0 Journal Article
%T Are there real orthogonal polarization modes in pulsar radio emission?
%A R. X. Xu
%A G. J. Qiao
%J Physics
%D 2000
%I arXiv
%R 10.1007/BF02897168
%X The Orthogonal Polarization Modes (OPM) have been reported observationally and accepted widely by pulsar researchers. However, no acceptable theory can show the origin of the OPM, which becomes a mystery in pulsar research field. Here a possible way to solve this mystery is presented. We ask a question: Does there exist any real so-called OPM in pulsar radiation? It is proposed in this paper that the `observed OPM' in individual pulses could be the results of depolarization of pulsar radiation and the observational uncertainties originated from polarimeter in observation. A possible way to check this idea is suggested. If the idea is verified, the pulsar research would be influenced significantly in theory and in observation.
%U http://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/0007056v1