Chapter 25, Problem 1RQ

Review Question 25.1 What is the difference between a linearly polarized mechanical wave and an unpolarized one?

To determine

The difference between a linearly polarized mechanical wave and an unpolarized wave.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

Solution:

The linearly polarized mechanical waves are those whose oscillations are confined in only one plane whereas, in unpolarized wave, the oscillations occur in many directions. Polarized waves are coherent and unpolarized waves are incoherent in nature.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Linearly polarized mechanical waves are those whose oscillations occur only in a single plane.

Unpolarized waves are those waves which have oscillations in more than one plane.

Explanation:

Differences:

Linearly polarized mechanical wave	Unpolarized mechanical wave
The oscillation is confined to only one plane.	The oscillation occurs in many planes.
It is coherent in nature.	It is incoherent in nature.
The intensity depends on the nature of polaroid used.	Its intensity depends on the nature of source.

Conclusion:

The linearly polarized mechanical waves and unpolarized wave have some differences, such as one has oscillations in a single plane, and the other, in different planes.