Abstract
A RAY of plane polarized light, on entering an optically active medium, is resolved into two circularly polarized rays (one right-handed and the other left-handed) which travel at different speeds1. Cotton2 found that, in solutions of potassium chromium tartrate, the circularly polarized rays are unequally absorbed, and the emergent light is elliptically polarized. He called the phenomenon ‘circular dichroism’, and studied it in two ways: (1) by direct experiments with circularly polarized light, and (2) by ellipticity measurements. Later workers, however, have confined their attention almost entirely to the second method. Ellipticity is now usually measured by means of a λ/4 plate (or Fresnel rhomb) mounted behind the polarizing system of a polarimeter, and with this simple apparatus many substances have been shown to exhibit circular dichroism.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
