Question

a polarized lens will let in only what type of light?

• only light with a certain wavelength.
• only light that oscillates in a certain direction.
• only light that has a certain speed.
• only light has a certain frequency.

Explanation:

Define polarization of light

Light is a transverse electromagnetic wave. This means its electric field oscillates perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Unpolarized light oscillates in multiple random directions.

Explain polarized lens function

A polarizing filter or lens has a specific transmission axis. It only allows light waves whose electric field oscillations align with this axis to pass through, blocking the rest.

Evaluate the given options

• Wavelength/Frequency: Lenses that filter by wavelength or frequency are color filters, not polarizers.
• Speed: The speed of light in a given medium is constant for all visible light and is not filtered by a polarizer.
• Oscillation direction: A polarized lens specifically filters light based on its direction of oscillation.

Answer:

• Only light with a certain wavelength.
• Only light that oscillates in a certain direction. (Correct answer)
• Only light that has a certain speed.
• Only light has a certain frequency.