Asked by Bruce

There are two polarizing filters that are out of alignment by 30 degrees. If the light of intensity 1.00 W/m^2 and initially polarized half-way between the two filters passes through the two filters, what is the intensity of the transmitted light?

I know the answer is 0.700 W/m^2, but I have no clue how to find that answer.
Thank you for any help!
Answered by drwls
The fraction that gets through the first fiter is (cos15)^2 = 0.9330

The fraction of that which gets through the second filter is (cos30)^2 = 0.7500

Now take the product.

Actually, sheet polarizing "Polaroid" films lose even more than that, due to absorption.
Answered by Bruce
The intensity of the light isn't halved after it passes through each filter? That's what I don't understand.
Thank you for your help!
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