polar equation

An equation which expre es the relation between the polar coördinates of every point of a line or surface. polar-forces, s. pl. [FORCE (1), 8., (23).] 3172 (1) Polarization of light : Optics : A state into which the ethereal undulations which cause the sensation of light are brought under certain conditions. These undulations are perpendicular to the line of transmi ion of the wave, as in a stretched cord, but, in a ray of common light, appear to take place succe ively in all directions in the manner shown in the diagram A (but with the transitions far more gradual), the vibrations succe ively pa ing through rectilinear, elliptical, and circular phases with inconceivable rapidity. If, now, the vibrations become, or are rendered, stable in any one form of orbit, the light is in the condition known as polarized, and the state is one of plane, elliptical, or circular polarization, according as the orbit resembles B, C, or D. The most familiar and simple form is that of plane polarization. This may be produced in various ways, the piece of apparatus producing such modifications being called a Polarizer. When produced, however, the effects can only be perceived by examining them through another piece of apparatus which, used alone, would polarize the light, but when used to examine light already polarized, is