A clear sheet of polaroid is placed on top of a similar sheet so that their polarizing axes make an angle of 30$\degree$ with each other. The ratio of the intensity of emerging light to incident unpolarized light is:
A) 1:4
B) 1:3
C) 1:2
D) 3:4
E) 3:8

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The intensity of light passing through two polarizers is given by Malus's Law: I = I0 * cos²(θ). For unpolarized light passing through the first polarizer, the intensity is halved (I0/2). Then, applying Malus's Law for the second polarizer at 30 degrees, the intensity becomes (I0/2) * cos²(30°) = (I0/2) * (3/4) = 3I0/8. Thus, the ratio is 3:8.

A Clear Sheet of Polaroid Is Placed on Top of a Similar