polarized light and refraction!!!

compound

Hi guys

I need to discuss the polarized light in the waveguide and its refraction at an interface between two different media.
if the light is polarized like in the picture(see attached) and oscillating only up and down (linear polarization), then does the light will be refracted at the interface or not?

my idea is that although the interface is tilted, the angle between electric field and the interface is normal, then no refraction.

I will appreciate if somebody is interested in this problem.

Drakkith

I don't believe the polarization affects whether or not it refracts at the surface. However it can do things if you have a birefringent material.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birefringence

DrDu

The light will be refracted and the angle is given by Snells law independent on it's polarization (as long as the material is not birefringent). Polarization only affects the ratio of light being reflected/ transmitted.

andrien

just apply the condition of continuity of normal component of D and continuity of tangential component of E across the interface.see if it does give rise to any refraction amplitude.

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Drakkith Recognitions: Gold Member	I don't believe the polarization affects whether or not it refracts at the surface. However it can do things if you have a birefringent material. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birefringence

DrDu Recognitions: Science Advisor	The light will be refracted and the angle is given by Snells law independent on it's polarization (as long as the material is not birefringent). Polarization only affects the ratio of light being reflected/ transmitted.

andrien	polarized light and refraction!!! just apply the condition of continuity of normal component of D and continuity of tangential component of E across the interface.see if it does give rise to any refraction amplitude.