Width of a wire grid polarizer

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design considerations of wire grid polarizers, specifically focusing on the width of the wires in relation to the wavelength of the light being polarized. Participants explore the implications of wire width on light scattering and the effective behavior of the polarizer.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why the width of a wire grid polarizer must be less than the wavelength of the light to be polarized and what the consequences would be if the width exceeded this limit.
  • Another participant suggests that the spacing between the wires should be less than the wavelength to minimize light scattering, drawing a parallel to how visible polarizers utilize long-chain molecules to create an anisotropic medium.
  • A further inquiry is made about the mechanism by which reducing the spacing minimizes light scattering.
  • It is proposed that if the polarizer's dimensions are appropriately small, it would behave as a homogeneous object rather than as an array of discrete scatterers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the relationship between wire width and light scattering, with some proposing explanations while others seek clarification. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the mechanisms involved.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the definitions of terms like "homogeneous object" and "light scattering" that remain unaddressed. The discussion also does not resolve the specific physical principles governing the behavior of wire grid polarizers.

deep838
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Why is it that the width of a wire grid polarizer has to be less than the wavelength of the wave which I want to polarize? What would happen if the width was a little bit more?
 
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If I understand you correctly, the spacing between the wires of a wire polarizer need to be less than a wavelength to minimize light scattering- you want the field to respond to 'macroscopic' (spatially averaged) properties of the device, not the microscopic structure, similar to how visible polarizers use long-chain molecules to act as an anisotropic medium.
 
Andy Resnick said:
If I understand you correctly, the spacing between the wires of a wire polarizer need to be less than a wavelength to minimize light scattering.


how does that reduce the scattering of light.?
 
The polarizer would then appear to be a homogeneous object, not an array of discrete scatterers.
 

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