Is Circular Polarisation the Same as Linear Polarisation?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of circular and linear polarization in light. Participants explore the definitions and characteristics of each type of polarization, including phase differences and the behavior of electric field components. Real-life applications and examples are also mentioned, particularly in relation to polarizing filters and sunglasses.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Exploratory

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to clarify the differences between circular and linear polarization, questioning the implications of phase differences and the behavior of light through polarizers. There are inquiries about real-life examples and the practical applications of these concepts, particularly in technology like mobile phones.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing their understanding and questioning each other's examples and concepts. Some guidance is provided regarding the nature of polarized light and its effects, but there is no explicit consensus on the interpretations of the examples discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the practical implications of polarization, particularly in terms of visibility and the effects of different types of polarizers. There is a mention of specific products, such as Polaroid sunglasses and 3D glasses, which may influence the discussion context.

Ezio3.1415
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I have read about polarisation... just a little ques about concept...

in case of circular polarisation there is 90 degree phase difference between the two v and h, e field component... right...

and in case of linear polarisation the e field is restricted to oscillate in only one plane... right?

I think I am right about linear polarisation... It should be cause the linear polariser allows only one component of v and h ,to pass through... so there will be either v or h component passing through...

And can u tell me of some real life examples of linear and circular polarisation
? I know how they work... how malus's law works... just some real life examples... like why the new mobilenphones use circular polariser...(I heard I phone /pad has it...)
 
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Polaroid sunglasses are vertically polarized because glare from the sun is horizontally polarized.
The 3D Polaroid glasses are circularly polarized, at least the pair I have is.
 
I didn't understand your 1st example... How will we observe light then? the polaroid won't let any E component pass... so light won't too...

what does a circular polariser makes anything look like? for say,if u look at me,how will I look like?

and my concept is correct,right?
 
In general, sunlight has all polarizations. Light reflected from a road, for example, when you are looking into the sun, or if you are a fisherman looking at the water into the sun, much, but not all,of the reflected light is horizontally polarized. The vertically polarized sunglasses will reduce the glare more than the other light.

Circular polarized light looks the same as looking through regular sunglasses. However, when you have a pair of circular poloroid lenses, rotating them makes a difference as well as flipping them.
 

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