Question:

A polarizer - analyser set is adjusted such that the intensity of light coming out of the analyser is just 10% of the original intensity. Assuming that the polarizer - analyser set does not absorb any light, the angle by which the analyser need to be rotated further to reduce the output intensity to be zero, is :

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Malus's law: \(I=I_0\cos^2\theta\). Find the angle that gives 10% intensity, then the extra rotation needed to reach 90° (zero intensity).
Updated On: Oct 31, 2026
  • 71.6o
  • 90o
  • 18.4o
  • 45o
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Malus's law gives \(I=I_0\cos^2\theta\). For 10% transmission, \(\cos^2\theta=0.1\), so \(\cos\theta=\dfrac{1}{\sqrt{10}}\).
Step 2: \(\theta=\cos^{-1}(0.3162)\approx71.6^\circ\).
Step 3: The intensity becomes zero when the analyser is at 90° to the polarizer, so it must be rotated further by \(90^\circ-71.6^\circ=18.4^\circ\).
Answer: (C) 18.4°
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