Final answer:
Polarized light consists of waves that vibrate in one direction. Polarized light has an electric field that vibrates in only one direction, which is defined as the direction of polarization. Polarizing materials are used to filter light waves and allow only waves with a specific polarization to pass through.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polarized light consists of waves that vibrate in one direction.
Light from most sources vibrates in all directions perpendicular to propagation. However, polarized light has an electric field that vibrates in only one direction. The direction of polarization is defined to be the direction parallel to the electric field of the wave.
An example of polarized light is seen when using polarized sunglasses, which reduce glare from the surface of water or snow. The polarizing material in the sunglasses acts as a filter, allowing only light waves with a specific polarization to pass through while blocking other directions of polarization.