Polarization analyzers operating in a wide spectral range

Different versions of practical realization of customary optical systems for full measurement of the polarization state of quasi-monochromatic partially polarized light are considered. They can be used to overcome measurement difficulties associated with the finite width of the spectral range being studied. The effect of changes in characteristics of optical and polarization elements over a spectral range on the character of polarization measurements is analyzed. Methods for elimination of chromatism or taking into account its effect on measurements are suggested. Relations for taking into account the effect of chromatism of a phase plate with constant thickness on measurement results are given. Operation of a classical four-channel scheme for studing quasi-monochromatic partially polarized light in the visible and near-IR regions is considered. For this system, expressions are derived which make possible determination of Stokes parameters taking into account the effect of a finite spectral range. A system using phase modulation of radiation by an electrooptical cell and measurement of the maximum and minimum intensities of the modulated signal is considered. Measurements are carried out by using a two-channel system. Expressions are derived which make possible determination of Stokes parameters for the system under consideration in the visible and near-IR spectral regions. A system for measuring the polarization state of radiation in the visible and near-IR regions and based on modulation of radiation by an electrooptical phase cell is described. Measurements are carried out for the fundamental modulation frequency and its harmonics using a two-channel scheme. Relations for determining Stokes parameters of the system are presented.