Final answer:
Light reflecting at glancing angles from nonmetallic surfaces, such as water or roads, is typically polarized, especially when it reflects from a medium with an index of refraction different than the medium from which it travels. This polarization is due to the smoothness or roughness of the reflecting surface, with the former resulting in specific angles of reflection and the latter in diffused reflection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Light that reflects at glancing angles from nonmetallic surfaces such as glass, water, or roads is often polarized. This type of polarized light occurs when light reflects from a medium having an index of refraction different from the medium it is traveling through. When discussing nonmetallic surfaces, such as bodies of water or roads, we typically observe light reflecting from a medium with an index of refraction less than that of the medium it is traveling in, resulting in horizontally polarized light. This concept is visually depicted in figures that show the effect of a polarizing lens on light reflected from the surface of water.
Reflection and refraction are common when light encounters the surface of various materials. In the case of smooth surfaces, such as mirrors and calm water, light is reflected at specific angles, while rough surfaces, such as paper and leaves, diffuse light, reflecting it in many directions. This diffused reflection allows us to see objects from various angles. The combination of these reflective behaviors can be seen when the moon's light is reflected by a lake, as shown in a figure, elucidating the combined effect of smooth and rough surface reflections. The polarization of reflected light can be significant in applications such as photography and in reducing glare for improved visibility while driving or during other activities.