Examples of waves Electromagnetic waves

Polarization of Electric & Magnetic Fields Polaroids The intensity of light waves can be diminished by using a polarizing filter (“polaroid”). Long-chain molecules absorb the electric field in the direction parallel to the chain. “Crossed” polarizers block light:

Polarization

Polarization of Electric & Magnetic Fields Reflection It turns out that reflection of light from a surface can also cause light to be polarized. Brewster’s angle is that angle at which all reflected light is polarized parallel to the surface of reflection.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum  Visible light makes up a very small portion of the measured electromagnetic spectrum.

IR link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3uaTyNWcBI

Specular Reflection Diffuse Reflection

Types of refraction From low n to high n (air to water) From high n to low n (water to air)

Mirage (inferior)

Mirage (superior)

dispersion in water droplets! Color and Dispersion Rainbows arise due to dispersion in water droplets!