On rotating the analyzer if the intensity of light rays coming out of it varies from maximum to zero then the incident beam of light is_____
To determine the incident beam of light based on the intensity variation observed when rotating the analyzer, we need to understand the concept of polarization. Polarized light consists of light waves that vibrate in a single plane, known as the plane of polarization. When unpolarized light passes through a polarizing filter, such as an analyzer, it selectively transmits only the light waves vibrating in a particular orientation aligned with the filter's transmission axis.
Now, if the intensity of light rays coming out of the analyzer varies from maximum to zero as it is rotated, it indicates that the incident beam of light must be polarized light, which is unpolarized before passing through the analyzer. In other words, the incident beam is a mixture of light waves vibrating in various planes of polarization.
By rotating the analyzer, we can control the transmission axis orientation and allow only a particular plane of polarization to pass through. At specific analyzer orientations, the polarization of the incident light aligns with the analyzer's transmission axis, resulting in maximum transmission and maximum intensity. As we continue rotating the analyzer, the polarization of the incident light gradually deviates from the transmission axis, causing a decrease in transmitted intensity. At the point where the analyzer's transmission axis is perpendicular to the polarization of the incident light, no light passes through, resulting in zero intensity.
Therefore, if the intensity of light rays coming out of the analyzer varies from maximum to zero as it is rotated, it suggests that the incident beam of light is unpolarized, and the analyzer is selectively transmitting different planes of polarization as it is adjusted.