5
$\begingroup$

A polarizer absorbs all light that vibrates in a particular direction. Where does the energy absorbed by the "chain molecules" of the polarizer go?

Does it change the structure of the molecules? Is it radiated as heat? Is it reflected back to the medium; if so, why is it said that they "absorb" light?

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
7
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ I guess that a polarizer just reflects the light, but there may be types that absorb it. +1 for a question that I never thought of. $\endgroup$
    – Gyro Gearloose
    Commented Dec 30, 2015 at 20:23
  • $\begingroup$ @GyroGearloose Thanks. I feel that the question is not much about physics though. $\endgroup$
    – Quark
    Commented Dec 30, 2015 at 20:37
  • $\begingroup$ Very few polarizers reflect light. your everyday sunglasses absorb light, leading to extremely minor heating. However, it is not "said that.. absorb light" . What is said is that only one polarization is transmitted. $\endgroup$
    – Carl Witthoft
    Commented Dec 30, 2015 at 20:45
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ @CarlWitthoft If I know the pass-axis of my sunglasses, it's area and the radiation pressure of sunlight , then I should be able to calculate heat generated, right? $\endgroup$
    – Quark
    Commented Dec 30, 2015 at 20:50
  • $\begingroup$ hot polarizers are common. In the simplest setting, they absorb 50% of the light. Polarizers may work for years, it seems unlikely that their structure changes with the heat $\endgroup$
    – user46925
    Commented Jan 5, 2016 at 8:16

0

Reset to default

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.