Abstract
We show that on all generic circular or elliptical paths in a random three-dimensional electromagnetic field, the electric and magnetic field vectors generate a cylinder throughout most of the optical cycle. At some point in the cycle, however, this cylinder transforms into a twisted ribbon with two sequential 180° twists. This ribbon exists for a short time and then unwinds, regenerating the cylinder. We discuss how and why these structures form and what determines their lifetimes.
© 2021 Optical Society of America
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