Polarizers

Introduction to how to measure polarization and the degree of polarization, The various physical processes used to control polarization including: absorption, reflection, interference, and birefringence. An explaination of the operation of a wire grid and its molecular equivalent, a polaroid plastic are given. Fresnel formula for reflection is used to calculate the Stokes component of the reflected light. A brief introduction to the concept of birefringence is given and the various designs of birefringent prism polarizers are listed with their advantanges and shortcomings. A sample design of a prism polarizer is given. Quarter wave and half wave retarders and their use are discussed. An optional section is devoted to optical activity and the use of chiral measurements in chemistry and drug manufacturing are discussed.