Exploring Brewster Law: Applicability to Opaque Materials

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In summary, the Brewster's Law can be applicable to opaque materials, but the refractive index must be carefully defined and taken into account. The use of Fresnel equations can help in determining the results in such cases.
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Vinith
Does Brewster law applicable to Opaque material?
 
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Depends on what exactly you want to know.
If there is an angle where no p-polarized light is reflected?
Or whether the angle of maximum polarization difference in reflection is arctan(n1/n2)? (What would you do with the complex angle?)

I propose you use the Fresnel equations (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fresnel_equations) for p polarization and figure it out for yourself. They should work in either case.
 
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Vinith said:
Does Brewster law applicable to Opaque material?

Yes, but you have to be a little more careful about how the refractive index is defined. Often, opaque (absorptive) materials are modeled with a complex index of refraction, so while the formulas themselves are unaltered, the complex index of refraction modifies the results:

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/fresnels-equation-with-complex-n.512034/
 
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FAQ: Exploring Brewster Law: Applicability to Opaque Materials

What is Brewster's Law?

Brewster's Law is a principle in optics that describes the relationship between the angle of incidence and the polarization of a reflected light ray at the interface between two materials. It states that when light strikes a surface at a specific angle, known as the Brewster angle, the reflected light will be completely polarized.

How is Brewster's Law applicable to opaque materials?

Brewster's Law is applicable to opaque materials because it applies to all types of materials, regardless of their transparency or opacity. As long as light is able to reflect off the surface of the material, Brewster's Law can be observed.

What are some real-life examples of Brewster's Law in action?

One example of Brewster's Law in action is polarized sunglasses. The lenses are designed to only allow light waves that are polarized in a specific direction to pass through, reducing glare from reflected light. Another example is the use of polarizing filters in photography to reduce reflections and increase contrast in images.

How is Brewster's Law derived?

Brewster's Law is derived from the Fresnel equations, which describe the behavior of light waves at the interface between two materials. By setting the equations for the intensity of the reflected and transmitted light waves equal to each other and solving for the angle of incidence, the Brewster angle can be calculated.

Are there any limitations to the applicability of Brewster's Law?

While Brewster's Law is a useful principle in optics, it does have some limitations. It only applies to light waves that are polarized in a single plane, and it does not take into account the effects of multiple reflections or the polarization of the incident light. Additionally, it may not accurately predict the behavior of light at interfaces with rough or non-uniform surfaces.

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