6H20.10 Brewster's Angle Demonstration

PURPOSE: To demonstrate how light is polarized upon reflection at Brewster's Angle

DESCRIPTION: A laser is reflected off a dedicated Brewster's Angle reflector (piece of "black glass" (opaque)). The reflector may be rotated through a range of angles. When a piece of polarizing film is held between the reflector and the viewing screen, as the reflector passes through Brewster's angle, the light will be mostly extinguished. Very nice demonstration of this phenomenon.

SETUP TIME: Medium

COMPONENT LIST:

    


  1. Laser and stand  (for this demonstration, it is best to use the "big" laser)


  2. Brewster's Angle reflector and stand        in optics cabinets


  3. Polarizing Film           Located on the "wave" shelf

SUGGESTIONS: This may also be done with a piece of "normal" (clear) glass so that students may observe the light that passed directly through.

REFERENCES: PIRA 6H20.10

OTHER NOTES: For this demonstration especially, Please practice laser safety and make sure the backscatter from the reflector (not to mention the primary beam) is directed at the floor and not up or out at students.