Polarization of Waves

Introduction:
Waves are classified based on their properties, such as the direction of oscillation and the direction of propagation. One property that certain waves can exhibit is polarization. Polarization refers to the orientation of the electric field vector associated with a wave. Only transverse waves can exhibit polarization.

Transverse Waves:
Transverse waves are characterized by oscillations that are perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. In these waves, the particles of the medium vibrate in a direction perpendicular to the direction the wave is traveling. Examples of transverse waves include electromagnetic waves (such as light), water waves, and seismic S-waves.

Polarization:
Polarization refers to the alignment of the electric field vector of a wave in a particular direction. It occurs when the electric field vector oscillates in a single plane perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This alignment can be linear, circular, or elliptical, depending on the orientation of the electric field vector.

Types of Polarization:
1. Linear Polarization: In linearly polarized waves, the electric field vector oscillates in a single plane. This can be achieved by passing a transverse wave through a polarizing filter, which allows only the electric field vector aligned in a particular direction to pass through.

2. Circular Polarization: In circularly polarized waves, the electric field vector rotates in a circular pattern as the wave propagates. This can be achieved by superposing two perpendicular linearly polarized waves with a phase difference of 90 degrees.

3. Elliptical Polarization: In elliptically polarized waves, the electric field vector traces out an elliptical pattern as the wave propagates. This can be achieved by superposing two perpendicular linearly polarized waves with a phase difference other than 90 degrees.

Answer: Option C - Transverse Waves
Among the given options, transverse waves are the only type that can exhibit polarization. Infrared waves, microwave, and longitudinal waves (such as sound waves) are not transverse waves and therefore cannot exhibit polarization.