What is the intensity of the transmitted light?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves the transmission of light through two polarizers that are misaligned by 30 degrees. The initial intensity of the light is given as 3.86 W/m², and the light is initially polarized halfway between the polarizing angles of the two filters.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply Malus' law to determine the transmitted intensity but initially uses an incorrect expression. They question whether to adjust the intensity based on the initial polarization angle.

Discussion Status

Some participants have pointed out an error in the application of Malus' law, suggesting that the correct formula involves squaring the cosine of the angle. There is an ongoing exploration of how to correctly apply this law to find the transmitted intensity.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of the initial polarization angle and its effect on the calculation, as well as the specific alignment of the polarizers.

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Homework Statement


Two polarizers are out of alignment by 30°. If light of intensity 3.86 W/m2 and initially polarized halfway between the polarizing angles of the two filters passes through the two filters, what is the intensity of the transmitted light?


The Attempt at a Solution



Use Malus' law:

I = I0 * cos(theta)
which gives me 3.34 W/m2

but it's not right... any hints?
should i divide it by 2 since it says that it is polarized halfway between ?
 
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You have the wrong expression for Malus' law.
 
i forgot square

I = I0 * cos(theta)^2 other than that it's right
 
So how would you go about solving this now that you have the correct form of Malus' Law?
 

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