M9-22.HTML
M9-22: HALF WAVE PLATE

PURPOSE: To show properties of a half-wave plate.

DESCRIPTION: Light from a bright point source with condenser and iris passes through a yellow filter and two crossed polaroids onto a distant screen. The half-wave plate, consisting of two identical quarter-wave plates, is then positioned between the two crossed polaroids at the angle which produces the greatest illumination on the screen. Remove the plate and cross the polaroids. The half-wave plate is then inserted set at the angle for darkness. The plate is rotated somewhat less than 45 degrees, producing some light. The analyzer must be rotated by twice the angle of the plate rotation to again produce darkness.

SUGGESTIONS: NOTE: The two quarter-wave plates must be moved together to simulate a half-wave plate.

REFERENCES: (PIRA 6H35.40)

EQUIPMENT: Bright point source with condenser and iris, yellow filter, two polaroids with two quarter-wave plates on insertable mounts between them.

SETUP TIME: 5 min.


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