PhysRefPhysics reference
Optics
Optics

Malus's Law

I=I0cos⁡2θI = I_0 \cos^2\theta

The intensity of polarized light after passing through a polarizer at angle θ.

Variables

I
Transmitted intensity
W/m²
I_0
Initial intensity
W/m²
\theta
Angle between polarizer and light polarization
°

Your notes

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Common questions

What is the Malus's Law formula?

Malus's Law is written I = I₀ cos²θ. The intensity of polarized light after passing through a polarizer at angle θ. It belongs to Optics, under Polarization.

What are the units in I = I₀ cos²θ?

In SI units, I is transmitted intensity, measured in W/m²; I_0 is initial intensity, measured in W/m²; \theta is angle between polarizer and light polarization, measured in °.