Year: 2007
Type: article
Abstract: Étienne-Louis Malus (see picture) serendipitously discovered the polarization of light by reflection nearly 200 years ago. The conditions of the re-creation of his benchmark experiment are analyzed. Malus' biography is arranged around the diary he kept in Egypt as an engineer in Bonaparte's army. His experiences in war are sadly relevant. The legacies of Malus are considered, including the continued reexamination of the indispensable law that bears his name.
Source: ChemPhysChem
Authors: Bart Kahr, Kacey Claborn
Institution: University of Washington
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2133662360