Reflection, Transmission and Polarization

Abstract

In this chapter, Maxwell’s equations are used for deducing laws of reflection/transmission of an electromagnetic wave entering an idealized plane boundary between two insulators, e.g. air (or vacuum) and glass. The expression for the Brewster angle is derived and Fresnel’s equations are presented. Snel’s law is derived using the principle of minimum time. Emphasis in the last part of the chapter is put on polarization and how it may be changed by the use of birefringent material like calcite or polarization filters. Use of polarization in polariometry as well as in stereoscopy is mentioned, and a brief comment on evanescent waves is given.