Calculating Electric Field Amplitude of Transmitted Light

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the electric field amplitude of transmitted light through a polarizing sheet, given an initial intensity of 30 watts/m². The relevant equations include Ia = Ip cos²(Θ) and I₀ = 30, leading to Ip = 15 watts/m². The user initially attempted to relate the electric field amplitudes using the equation sqrt(Ia/Ip) = Ea/Ep but later corrected their approach by referencing the equation I = (E²)/(μ₀c), which directly connects intensity to electric field amplitude.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave theory
  • Familiarity with the concept of intensity in light waves
  • Knowledge of polarizing filters and their effects on light
  • Basic proficiency in algebra and trigonometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between electric field amplitude and intensity using I = (E²)/(μ₀c)
  • Explore the effects of different angles of polarization on transmitted intensity
  • Learn about the properties of unpolarized versus polarized light
  • Investigate applications of polarizing filters in optical devices
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, optical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of light polarization and electric field calculations.

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Homework Statement



A beam of unpolarized light with intensity 30 watts/m^2 passes through a polarizing sheet. What is the electric field amplitude of the transmitted beam?

Homework Equations



Ia=Ipcos2\Theta
Ea=Epcos\Theta
Ip=Io/2

The Attempt at a Solution



I solved the first two equations for cos\Theta and set them equal to each other to get sqrt(Ia/Ip)=Ea/Ep

I know Io is 30, so Ip is 15

So then, I believe I should have sqrt(2)=Ea/Ep and I don't know how to just solve for one without the other...
 
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you need to know how the intensity of light is related to the electric field intensity. Look after in your textbook.

ehild
 
Ah, okay, so scrap all that and use I=(E2)/muoc

Thanks!

The book apparently likes to put questions at the end of random chapters!
 

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