MCAT Physics Question 111: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 111

6. A source of light (f = 6.0 × 1014 Hz) passes through three plane polarizers. The first two polarizers are in the same direction, while the third is rotated 90° with respect to the second polarizer. What is the frequency of the light that comes out of the third polarizer?

  • A. Light will not pass through the third polarizer
  • B. 3.0 × 1014 Hz
  • C. 6.0 × 1014 Hz
  • D. 9.0 × 1014 Hz

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

Plane-polarized light is light in which the electric fields of all the waves are oriented in the same direction. Light passing through the first two polarizers will only contain rays with their electric field vectors in the same direction. When it reaches the third polarizer, however, the light will not be able to pass through because all the light rays will be oriented in the direction dictated by the first and second polarizers.

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