Why do we use a Polarimeter?
Answer
298.5k+ views
Hint: A polarimeter is an instrument that is used to measure the angle of rotation when it is passing from polarised light. When the polarisation is passing to the sample tube, it starts exhibiting angular rotation toward the left and right.
Complete step by step solution:
A polarimeter is a device for finding the polarisation direction of light or we can say that it is used to find the angle of rotation when it is passing through the optically active fluid. The role of finding the rotation is to help us to find the concentration of the solutions.
A polarimeter consists of the polarised light source, a graduated circle to measure the angle of rotation, a sample tube, and a polarised light source. The figure of the polarimeter is shown below,

Image: Polarimeter
Working of the Polarimeter: As we can see in the figure, the monochromatic light is passing through the plane polarising plate which creates the polarised beam of light. This polarised beam of light is passing through a sample which contains ion the glass tube. When the beam is passed through the sample it will pass through the second plate known as the analyzer which helps to rotate the beam either via mutual rotation or automatic rotation. Which helps us to detect the concentration of the sample that is present.
Note : There are two main types of applications of the Polarimeter. One is quantitative and another is qualitative. In the quantitative application we can find out the concentration of the sample whereas in the quantitative application, it helps in chemistry to find out the D and L isomeric forms.
Complete step by step solution:
A polarimeter is a device for finding the polarisation direction of light or we can say that it is used to find the angle of rotation when it is passing through the optically active fluid. The role of finding the rotation is to help us to find the concentration of the solutions.
A polarimeter consists of the polarised light source, a graduated circle to measure the angle of rotation, a sample tube, and a polarised light source. The figure of the polarimeter is shown below,

Image: Polarimeter
Working of the Polarimeter: As we can see in the figure, the monochromatic light is passing through the plane polarising plate which creates the polarised beam of light. This polarised beam of light is passing through a sample which contains ion the glass tube. When the beam is passed through the sample it will pass through the second plate known as the analyzer which helps to rotate the beam either via mutual rotation or automatic rotation. Which helps us to detect the concentration of the sample that is present.
Note : There are two main types of applications of the Polarimeter. One is quantitative and another is qualitative. In the quantitative application we can find out the concentration of the sample whereas in the quantitative application, it helps in chemistry to find out the D and L isomeric forms.
Recently Updated Pages
Four persons A B C and D initially at the corners of class 11 physics JEE_Main

What is the difference between Conduction and conv class 11 physics JEE_Main

Moment of inertia of solid sphere about its diameter class 11 physics JEE_Main

If a piece of ice floating on the surface of water class 11 physics JEE_Main

At what temperature speed of sound in air will be doubled class 11 physics JEE_Main

A closed organ pipe and an open organ pipe are tuned class 11 physics JEE_Main

Trending doubts
JEE Main 2026: Exam Dates, Session 2 Updates, City Slip, Admit Card & Latest News

Understanding the Electric Field of a Uniformly Charged Ring

Understanding Atomic Structure for Beginners

Electron Gain Enthalpy and Electron Affinity Explained

Derivation of Equation of Trajectory Explained for Students

How to Convert a Galvanometer into an Ammeter or Voltmeter

Other Pages
CBSE Notes Class 11 Physics Chapter 1 - Units And Measurements - 2026-27 PDF Download (Login Required)

NCERT Solutions For Class 11 Physics Chapter 1 Units And Measurements - 2026-27 Free PDF Download (Login Required)

NCERT Solutions For Class 11 Physics Chapter 2 Motion In A Straight Line - 2026-27 Free PDF Download (Login Required)

Important Questions For Class 11 Physics Chapter 1 Units and Measurement - 2026-27 Free PDF Download (Sign-in Required)

JEE Advanced Percentile vs Marks 2026: JEE Main Cutoff, AIR & IIT Admission Guide

CBSE Notes Class 11 Physics Chapter 2 - Motion in a Straight Line - 2026-27 PDF Download (Login Required)

