Answer to Question #298520 in Optics for Omii

Question

Polarizer and analyzer are set with their polarizing directions parallel so that the intensity of transmitted light is maximum. Through what angle should either be turned so that the intensity is reduced to 80 % of the maximum intensity?

Answer 1

Let the initial intensity =I

and final intensity $=\frac{4I}{5}$

We know that

$I=I_o\cos^2 \theta$

$\frac{4I}{5}=I\cos^2 \theta$

$\cos^2\theta=\frac{4}{5}$

$\cos\theta=\frac{2}{\sqrt{5}}$

$\theta=cos^{-1} =26.6$

$\theta=26.6°$