In: Physics
Linearly polarized light whose Jones vector is ( 1 0 ) (horizontally polarized) is sent through a
train of two linear polarizers. The first is oriented with its transmission axis at 45 degrees and
the second has its transmission axis vertical. Show that the emerging light is linearly polarized
in the vertical direction. Discuss the intensity change through each polarizer
a) the vector Jones is
The first polarization is defined by the Jones matrix with an axis of transmission at 45 degrees
and the second polarization of the light is defined by the Jones matrix with an axis of transmission vertical
This shows that emerging light is linearly polarized in the vertical direction
b) If the initial intensity is
the intensity after light passes through first polarizer is
and the intensity after light passes through second polarizer
hence, the change of intensity is
The change of intensity is negative because the intensity of the light decreases after passing the polarizers