Polarization

This lab demonstrates the difference between polarized and unpolarized light. Comparison curves of illumination as a function of angle are generated for an unpolarized light source viewed through a single polaroid filter, and through two filters.

Student Objectives

  • Observe the difference between a polarized and an unpolarized light source
  • Measure the amount of transmitted light through a polarizing filter
  • Establish a relationship between the filter orientation and amount of light transmitted for a pair of polaroid filters
  • Prepare light curves for a single filter and a pair of polaroid filters
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