6H10.10 Polaroids

Concepts

Polarization, Malus's law

Overview

Light transmission through two polarizer sheets varies with the angle between their polarization axes. A third polarizer between two crossed polarizers can let light through.

Details

Equipment

  • [2] Large polaroid sheet
  • [1] Small polaroid
  • [1] Overhead projector

Script

  1. Turn on the overhead projector and place the sheets there with axes aligned.
  2. Rotate the top sheet until the polarizers are crossed.
  3. Place a third polarizer between the two sheets and rotate that to allow some light through.

 

Additional Resources

References

  • PIRA 6H10.10

Disclaimer

  • Don't attempt this at home!

Last revised

  • 2020

Technicals

Related AV

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If you have any questions about the demos or notes you would like to add to this page, contact Ricky Chu at ricky_chu AT sfu DOT ca.