Polarization
PHYS 310 · Module 5
This module studies the orientation of light's electric field. Students learn linear polarization, polarizers, Malus's law, Brewster's angle, circular polarization, and birefringence.
Lessons in this module
Linear polarization and polarizers
Polarization describes the direction of the electric field in a transverse light wave. This lesson introduces linear polarization, unpolarized light, and polarizing filters.
Malus's law
Malus's law gives the transmitted intensity of linearly polarized light through a polarizer. This lesson derives the cosine-squared dependence and applies it to multiple polarizers.
Brewster's angle
Brewster's angle is the incidence angle where reflected light is completely polarized. This lesson derives Brewster's law and connects it to glare reduction and optical design.
Circular polarization and birefringence
Circular and elliptical polarization arise from perpendicular field components with phase differences. This lesson introduces wave plates, birefringent materials, and optical activity.
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