Physics

Definition: Unpolarized, Polarized and Plane Polarized Light

Definition: Unpolarized, Polarized and Plane Polarized Light

Unpolarized light: Ordinary light waves whose vibrations normal to the direction of propagation, spread all around the source with equal amplitude is called unpolarized light [Fig -1]. It has two components i.e. Electrical component and the magnetic component.

  • The light waves that have vibrations occurring within them at random angles without any plane.
  • Reflection, scattering or travels through a material that can cause polarization.
  • The process of unpolarized light production may include reflection, scattering or travels through a material that can cause polarization.

Polarized light: The transverse light waves vibrating on a plane or parallel to it is called polarized light. [Fig -2]

  • The light waves that have vibrations occurring within them in a single plane.
  • Only takes place with the help of sunlight.

Plane polarized light: If the vibration of the waves of light is confined to only one plane, it is called plane polarized light. It is a term used to describe the polarization state of the source light used in polarizing microscopes. Polarized light is light that vibrates in a single direction due to its passage through a polarizer.

Fig: A2