QuestionMay 21, 2025

11. Two polarizers are held so that their polarizations are matched. A student turns one of the polarizers slowly through a complete circle. At how many different locations in the circle is the light completely blocked? 1 4 3 2

11. Two polarizers are held so that their polarizations are matched. A student turns one of the polarizers slowly through a complete circle. At how many different locations in the circle is the light completely blocked? 1 4 3 2
11. Two polarizers are held so that their polarizations are matched. A student turns one of
the polarizers slowly through a complete circle. At how many different locations in the
circle is the light completely blocked?
1
4
3
2

Solution
4.5(234 votes)

Answer

2 Explanation 1. Understand Polarizer Behavior When two polarizers are aligned, light passes through. As one is rotated, the intensity of transmitted light changes according to the angle \theta between their axes. 2. Apply Malus's Law **Malus's Law** states that I = I_0 \cos^2(\theta), where I_0 is the initial intensity. Light is completely blocked when \cos^2(\theta) = 0, i.e., \theta = 90^\circ or 270^\circ. 3. Determine Complete Circle Rotations A complete circle is 360^\circ. The angles where light is completely blocked are 90^\circ and 270^\circ.

Explanation

1. Understand Polarizer Behavior<br /> When two polarizers are aligned, light passes through. As one is rotated, the intensity of transmitted light changes according to the angle $\theta$ between their axes.<br /><br />2. Apply Malus's Law<br /> **Malus's Law** states that $I = I_0 \cos^2(\theta)$, where $I_0$ is the initial intensity. Light is completely blocked when $\cos^2(\theta) = 0$, i.e., $\theta = 90^\circ$ or $270^\circ$.<br /><br />3. Determine Complete Circle Rotations<br /> A complete circle is $360^\circ$. The angles where light is completely blocked are $90^\circ$ and $270^\circ$.
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