Learning objective
Distinguish natural, linearly, elliptically and partially polarized light.
Derive and apply the laws of Malus and Brewster.
Study birefringence in anisotropic crystals and the concepts of ordinary and extraordinary rays.
Become familiar with the operating principles of polarizing devices.
Expected outcomes
Calculates the intensity of light transmitted by a system of polarizers and analysers.
Finds Brewster's angle and the degree of polarization.
Explains the properties of the ordinary and extraordinary rays in a uniaxial crystal.
Explains how a Nicol prism, a polaroid and a Wollaston prism work.
Activities
Lecture
Lecture · 55 min ·
required
Polarization of light. Types of polarized light and how to obtain them. Malus's law. Brewster's law.
Practice · 55 min ·
required
Isotropic and anisotropic crystals and their applications
Self-study · 4 h 25 min ·
optional
Final test
Test · 20 min ·
required
· pass ≥ 70%
Completion conditions
- Lecture
- Polarization of light. Types of polarized light and how to obtain them. Malus's law. Brewster's law.
- Final test — at least 70%