This comprehensive introduction to polarized light provides students and researchers with the background and the specialized knowledge needed to fully utilize polarized light. It provides a basic introduction to the interaction of light with matter for those unfamiliar with photochemistry and photophysics. An in-depth discussion of polarizing optics is also given. Different analytical techniques are introduced and compared and introductions to the use of polarized light in various forms of spectroscopy are provided.

Starts at a basic level and develops tools for research problems
Discusses practical devices for controlling polarized light
Compares the Jones, Mueller, and Poincaré sphere methods of analysis

Contenu

The Nature of Light. Polarization Properties of Light. Devices for Control of Polarized Light. Introduction to the Jones Calculus, Mueller Calculus and Poincaré Sphere. The Jones Calculus, Mueller Calculus and Poincaré Sphere Revisited. Spectroscopy with Polarized Light. Orientation and Photoselection Effects. Polarized Light in Condensed Phases. Appendixes. Index.