Definition of: polarization

(pō′lər·ə·zā′shən, -ī·zā′-) noun
1. The act of polarizing, or state of being polarized; bestowal or gaining of polarity.
2. Physics A condition of radiant energy, most noticeable in light, in which its vibrations assume a definite form or direction when subjected to special influences. Light may be polarized by reflection, at an angle which differs for different substances, or by transmission, as through most crystals or solutions. If light thus treated be examined by subjecting it to such reflection or transmission a second time, it is found that in certain positions of the reflector or crystal it will pass most easily, while in the positions at right angles to these it will be totally quenched, and in intermediate positions it will pass partially. The plane of polarization is altered or rotated by the passage of light through suitable media; this is called rotary polarization, which takes two directions, right–handed and left–handed.
3. Electr. A change in the potential of the electrode of a cell due to the accumulation upon it of dissociation products liberated by the current.
—angle of polarization or polarizing angle That angle of reflection from a plane surface at which light is polarized.
—plane of polarization The plane in which the light vibrations occur when polarized.
POLARIZATION
Of the light emitted at a, only the part whose electric oscillations are parallel to the axis of polarizing medium b can pass through it. This is blocked at polarizing medium c, whose axis is at right angles to that of b.