Question

Polarising angle for water is \( 53^\circ 4' \). If light is incident at this angle on the surface of water and reflected, the angle of refraction is:

• A. \( 53^\circ 4' \)
• B. \( 126^\circ 56' \)
• C. \( 36^\circ 56' \)
• D. \( 90^\circ \)

Hint:

The polarizing angle for a material is the angle of incidence at which the reflected light is completely polarized.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Use Brewster's Law.
Brewster’s law relates the polarizing angle \( \theta_p \) and the angle of refraction \( \theta_r \) by the equation: \[ \tan \theta_p = \frac{n_2}{n_1} \] where \( n_1 \) and \( n_2 \) are the refractive indices of the two media.
Step 2: Explanation.
For water, the refractive index is such that the angle of refraction will be \( 36^\circ 56' \).
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{36^\circ 56'} \]