aSobolev Astronomical Institute, St. Petersburg University, St. Petersburg 198504, Russia
bIUCAA, Post Bag 4, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411 007, India
Abstract:
We calculate the wavelength dependence of the ratio of the linear polarization degree to extinction (polarizing efficiency) P(λ)/A(λ) from the ultraviolet to near-infrared. The prolate and oblate particles with aspect ratios from a/b=1.1 up to 10 are assumed to be rotating and partially aligned with the mechanism of paramagnetic relaxation (Davis–Greenstein). Size/shape/orientation effects are analyzed. It is found that the wavelength dependence of P(λ)/A(λ) is mainly determined by the particle composition and size whereas the values of P(λ)/A(λ) depend on the particle shape, degree and direction of alignment.