Polarization of Light

This lecture explores the complexities of defining light polarization, the conventions used to determine the direction of polarization, and the impact of phase differences on creating linear, circular, and elliptical polarizations. The instructor delves into the concept of Jones vectors to describe polarization states and introduces Jones matrices to characterize the effect of optical components on light polarization. Various examples are discussed, including linear, circular, and elliptical polarizations, as well as the manipulation of light polarization using optical components like polarizers and retarders. The lecture also covers the principles of photoelasticity and birefringence in materials, as well as the application of liquid crystals in display technology.