Polarization of light and sunglasses

In summary, light coming from the sun is unpolarised because the electromagnetic field is moving randomly along the direction of propagation. When light strikes a water surface, some rays are polarized parallel to the surface. However, if sunglasses only allow vertically polarized light in, we would still see some light due to the horizontal component remaining. Only at Brewster's Angle does reflected light become perfectly polarized.
  • #1
ZxcvbnM2000
64
1
Light coming from the sun is unpolarised therefore the electromagnetic field is moving randomly along the direction of propagation .

When light is polarised this means that the photons vibrate in one plane , but how can this happen ? it means that either one of the electric or magnetic fields must be cut out , is that right ?

When light strikes a water surface then some rays will be polarized parallel to the surface but then if sunglasses were made of material that only let's light in vertically then we should see nothing ?!
 
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  • #2
Polarized light does not consist of photons vibrating in a plane. The electromagnetic wave itself is polarized. Neither of the fields are cut out, both exist.

When light strikes a water surface then some rays will be polarized parallel to the surface but then if sunglasses were made of material that only let's light in vertically then we should see nothing ?!

Only some of the waves are. The rest are not polarized horizontally.
 
  • #3
ZxcvbnM2000 said:
Light coming from the sun is unpolarised therefore the electromagnetic field is moving randomly along the direction of propagation .
Perpendicular to direction of propagation.

ZxcvbnM2000 said:
When light strikes a water surface then some rays will be polarized parallel to the surface but then if sunglasses were made of material that only let's light in vertically then we should see nothing ?!
Only at Brewster's Angle does reflected light become perfectly polarized. At any other angle, you still have both the horizontal and vertical components remaining. The vertical component simply happens to be attenuated.
 

FAQ: Polarization of light and sunglasses

What is polarization of light?

Polarization of light refers to the orientation of the electric field of a light wave. In unpolarized light, the electric field oscillates in all directions perpendicular to the direction of travel. But in polarized light, the electric field oscillates in a specific direction, resulting in a more organized and concentrated light wave.

What are sunglasses and how do they work?

Sunglasses are eyewear designed to protect the eyes from bright sunlight and reduce glare. They work by filtering out certain light waves, such as horizontally polarized light, which can cause glare and eye strain. This is achieved through the use of polarized lenses, which contain a special filter that blocks horizontally polarized light.

Why is polarization important for sunglasses?

Polarization is important for sunglasses because it reduces glare, which can be distracting and even dangerous in certain situations, such as when driving or participating in outdoor activities. By blocking horizontally polarized light, polarized sunglasses also improve visual clarity and contrast, making it easier to see objects and colors more accurately.

How are polarized sunglasses different from regular sunglasses?

Polarized sunglasses are different from regular sunglasses because they have a special filter that blocks horizontally polarized light. Regular sunglasses may only reduce the overall amount of light that enters the eye, but they do not specifically target horizontally polarized light. This makes polarized sunglasses more effective at reducing glare and improving visual clarity.

Are polarized sunglasses suitable for everyone?

While polarized sunglasses offer many benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may experience distortion or difficulty seeing certain digital screens, such as LCD displays, when wearing polarized sunglasses. Additionally, certain activities, such as flying a plane or skiing on certain slopes, may require the use of non-polarized sunglasses for safety reasons. It is always best to consult with an eye care professional to determine if polarized sunglasses are suitable for you.

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