Abstract. The multiple inversion of the sign of circular polarization in the microwave local source of an active region is interpreted as a result of the quasi-transverse propagation of microwaves. For further analysis of the inversion, mathematical restrictions on the degree of circular polarization are drawn using the wave mode coupling theory. The polarization depression at wavelengths, adjacent to the wavelength of zero circular polarization, is estimated for three active regions. Also, the dependence of multiple inversion on wavelength as a result of multiple crossing of the coronal QT-regions is verified. We suggest a hierarchy of coronal arches of active regions as a structure responsible for the multiple inversion of circular polarization of microwaves.