Polarized Glasses plus Windshield Tint = Rainbows

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the visual effects experienced while wearing Maui Jim polarized sunglasses while driving, specifically the appearance of rainbow-like colors on the road. The user notes that this phenomenon occurs only when the windows are closed, suggesting that the combination of the polarized lenses and the 3M tinted windshield creates this optical effect. The user also references the principle of polarization, questioning how polarized glasses can reveal colors in certain optical illusions while blocking horizontal light. The inquiry highlights the interaction between polarized light and tinted surfaces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of optical polarization principles
  • Familiarity with the properties of polarized lenses
  • Knowledge of how tinted windows affect light transmission
  • Basic concepts of color perception in optics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of polarized light on color perception
  • Explore the science behind optical illusions created by polarized filters
  • Investigate the interaction between different types of window tints and polarized lenses
  • Learn about the physics of light and color in relation to automotive glass
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Optics enthusiasts, automotive professionals, and anyone interested in the science of light and color interactions, particularly in relation to polarized lenses and tinted windows.

jlcd
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I bought a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses. When I tried it on daytime driving.. the roads have rainbow like effect. When I opened the windows (looking at the same road), there are no rainbows. So the windshield and window dark tint (3M) can somehow produce the rainbows when seen thru a polarized glasses..

I know the concept of polarizer. The sunglasses were supposed to make one avoid seeing the horizontal polarization. What is in the tint that can make the entire road pinkisk, bluish and changing colors as you drive?

Another thing unrelated (or maybe related). In optical stores.. they have this small drawing where you can only see the entire picture (in color) if you wear the polarized glasses. Without them, the picture has no color and even invisible. Well. If polarized glasses only avoid letting you see the horizontal photons, how can they produce that effect? Thank you.
 
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