Polarisation Flashcards
polarisation can happen to only……..
transverse waves
What is a polarised wave?
one which is oscillating in only one direction
What is polarisation?
a process in which vibrations in planes that aren’t the plane of polarisation are filtered out and stopped
Why cannot polarisation happen to longitudinal waves/
as these are already travelling in one plane
What can we use to cause polarisation?
polarising filters
What is the plane that lets waves through called>
plane of polarisation
What is polarised light?
light oscillating in only one direction
What happens if we place 2 polarising filters in series and turn the second one?
a reduction in intensity until no waves(in any direction) pass through
How can unpolarised light become partially polarised?
by reflection on a reflective surface. This effect is used to remove unwanted reflections in photography and glare in sunglasses
What everyday things are polarised?
tv and radio signals (so we have to move the receiving aerials)
What are microwaves polarised with?
metal grilles
