When a beam of light is passed through a polarizer, it is polarized in

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SUMMARY

When a beam of light passes through a polarizer, such as a polaroid, it becomes polarized in a specific direction, typically the x-direction. The energy associated with the y-direction electric field is not transmitted and is absorbed by the polarizer, converting it into heat. Different types of polarizers, like beam splitters, behave differently; they can transmit one component of light while reflecting another. This distinction is crucial for understanding the energy dynamics in polarized light systems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of light polarization concepts
  • Familiarity with polarizing filters, specifically polaroids and beam splitters
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetic waves
  • Awareness of energy transformation processes in optical devices
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  • Research the principles of light polarization and its applications
  • Explore the differences between various types of polarizers, including polaroids and beam splitters
  • Study the energy absorption mechanisms in optical filters
  • Learn about the practical applications of polarized light in technology and science
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Students of physics, optical engineers, and anyone interested in the behavior of light and its applications in technology.

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When a beam of light is passed through a polarizer, it is polarized in a certain direction, say the x-direction. So, the irradiance or the energy of the initial beam is now reduced. The y-direction electric field could not pass through.
So, where has the y-direction electric field gone, which carries some of the energy of the initial beam?
 
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Am I oversimplifying? Or are you asking what happens to the energy that doesn't make it through the filter?

It gets absorbed by the filter itself - as heat.
 
Depends what the polariser is. Polaroids absorb the non-transmitted components, whereas beam splitters for example will transmit one and reflect the other.

Claude.
 
Claude Bile said:
Depends what the polariser is. Polaroids absorb the non-transmitted components, whereas beam splitters for example will transmit one and reflect the other.

Claude.
But he's asking about light passing through polarizers.
 
I took polariser to mean polarising devices in general, but upon reflection it occurred to me the OP may just be referring to polaroids.

Claude.
 

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