Unpolarized light of intensity I₀ is incident upon the first of two polarizers. The second polarizer has its preferential direction at 50° with respect to the first polarizer. The final transmitted intensity is A) (0.21) I₀. B) (0.41) I₀. C) (0.044) I₀. D) (0.59) I₀.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The final transmitted intensity after passing through two polarizers with an angle θ between their axes is given by Malus's Law, which states $I = I_0 \cos^2(\theta)$. For an initial unpolarized light intensity $I_0$ and an angle of 50°, the final intensity $I = I_0 \times \cos^2(50°) \approx 0.21 I_0$, making option A correct.

Unpolarized Light of Intensity I0 Is Incident Upon the First

Unpolarized Light of Intensity I₀ Is Incident Upon the First