Sunglasses are a modern accessory we use to protect our eyes from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation of the sun. However, not all sunglasses are created equal. Polarized sunglasses, for example, are specially designed to block glare from surfaces such as water, snow and roads, providing clearer and more comfortable vision.
Polarized sunglasses have become increasingly popular over the years, but not everyone is familiar with how they work. In this article, we'll dive into the science behind polarized sunglasses and explore how they can improve our visual experience.
First, let's take a look at what polarized sunglasses are. Simply put, polarized sunglasses are sunglasses with a special filter that blocks horizontally oriented light waves, also known as polarized light. This type of light can cause glare, which can be particularly annoying when engaging in outdoor activities such as driving, fishing or skiing.
The polarizing filter in sunglasses is made of a special material called polarizing film. This material is usually made of a type of plastic or polymer that is coated with a special chemical that can block horizontally oriented light waves. When light waves strike the polarizing filter at an angle, the filter allows only vertically oriented light waves to pass through, effectively blocking horizontally oriented light waves that cause glare.
The science behind polarizing sunglasses is based on the principles of light waves and their orientation. Light waves are characterized by their wavelength and orientation, which can be either vertical or horizontal. When light waves strike a surface, they can either be absorbed, reflected or refracted. Reflected light waves, which are reflected from a surface at an angle, can cause glare, especially on shiny or reflective surfaces such as water, snow, or roads.
Polarized sunglasses work by blocking horizontally oriented light waves, which are the main cause of glare. This allows only vertically oriented light waves to pass through the lenses, providing a clearer and more comfortable vision. Polarized sunglasses can also enhance the color and contrast of our surroundings, making them a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts such as fishermen, skiers and hikers.
It is important to note that not all sunglasses are polarized and not all polarized sunglasses are created equal. Polarized sunglasses come in different types and grades, with some offering better polarizing results than others. In addition, polarized sunglasses may not be suitable for certain activities, such as skiing on cloudy days or flying in an airplane, where the polarizing effect may interfere with instrument readings.
In conclusion, polarized sunglasses are a popular choice for those who want to block glare and improve their visual experience. They work by blocking horizontally oriented light waves, which are the main cause of glare, and allowing only vertically oriented light waves to pass through the lenses. Understanding the science behind polarizing sunglasses can help us choose the right type and quality of polarizing sunglasses for our needs and use them safely and effectively in a variety of situations.
