SAT II Physics : Polarization

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SAT II Physics

varsity tutors app store varsity tutors android store

Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Optics, Waves, And Quantum

Which of the following scenarios would result in the polarization of light?

Possible Answers:

Light is absorbed by a black body

Light passes through a vacuum

A light source travels at a high velocity

Light is reflected off of a glass window

Light pass between two mediums with the same index of refraction

Correct answer:

Light is reflected off of a glass window

Explanation:

Light is polarized when it is all oscillating in the same direction. This effect occurs when light is reflected. Polarization can occur through refraction, however if light is passing between mediums with the same index of refraction, the light will not refract.

Learning Tools by Varsity Tutors