Everyday Science · 45 sec
Polarization (waves)
The science behind something you encounter, use, or wonder about.
The useful idea
- The useful idea
Polarization, or polarisation, is a property of transverse waves which specifies the geometrical orientation of the oscillations.
- How it works
In a transverse wave, the direction of the oscillation is perpendicular to the direction of motion of the wave.
- Why it matters
One example of a polarized transverse wave is vibrations traveling along a taut string, for example, in a musical instrument like a guitar string.
Why this matters
Look for Polarization (waves) the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for Polarization (waves) the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Polarization (waves)?
- The useful idea — correct
- How it works
- Why it matters
Polarization, or polarisation, is a property of transverse waves which specifies the geometrical orientation of the oscillations.