Mica Polarization Demo

 

Code Number: 6H35.54

Demo Title: Polarization - Mica

Condition: Excellent

Principle: Polarization of Light & Birefringence

Area of Study: Optics, E & M

Equipment:

Overhead Polarizers (2), Mica.

Procedure:

Place a piece if Mica between cross Polaroid's and observe rainbow colors due to birefringence.

References:

  • Paul Changnon, "Animated Displays IV: Linear Polarization", TPT, Vol. 31, # 8, Nov. 1993, p. 489 and referenced in Resource Letter TLC-1 Teaching Light and Color, Demonstration Experiments Resource Articles.
  • Myron A. Jeppesen, "Experiments with Doubly Refracting Crystals", AJP, Vol. 19, #2, Feb 1951, p. 81.  
  • Om-14, 15:  Freier and Anderson,  A Demonstration Handbook for Physics.
  • George M. Hopkins, "Mica Objects For The Polariscope", Experimental Science, p. 247.
  • George M. Hopkins, "Polarized Light", Experimental Science, p. 238.
  • 2.2:  Charles Taylor,  The Art and Science of Lecture Demonstration, p. 62- 63.