Polaroid sheets and the law of malus

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Unpolarised light passing through two Polaroid sheets is analyzed using Malus's Law, I=I0 cos²θ. The first sheet is horizontal, while the second is oriented at 50 degrees. One participant initially calculates the transmitted intensity as 47%, but confusion arises regarding the correct application of the formula. Another participant suggests that the result should be 28%, leading to further discussion about the proper use of the degrees setting on calculators. The conversation highlights the challenges in applying the law correctly to determine the intensity of light after passing through the sheets.
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Unpolarised light passes through two Polaroid sheets. The axis of the rst is horizontal, and
that of the second is 50 above the?

Do i have this right. I am using law of malus I=I0 cos2θ

Im getting 47% but i don't know if that's right. If someone could help that would be awesome thanks.
 
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hi cuddlylover! :smile:
cuddlylover said:
Unpolarised light passes through two Polaroid sheets. The axis of the rst is horizontal, and that of the second is 50 above the?

how did you get 47% ?
 
(cos(50)^2)/2

Is that not right?
 
he he :biggrin:

press the "degrees" button! :wink:
 
28%?
 
now you've completely lost me :redface:

how did you get 28% ? :confused:
 
Me to lol i get the feeling that was not my degrees button i just hit :)
 
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