
polarimeter
A polarimeter is a scientific instrument used to measure the way certain substances rotate polarized light. Some materials, like liquids containing chiral molecules (such as sugar solutions), can twist the direction of polarized light passing through them. By observing this rotation, a polarimeter helps identify the substance’s concentration or purity. Essentially, it quantifies how much a sample changes the orientation of light's oscillations, providing valuable information in fields like chemistry and food testing. The device typically includes a light source, polarized filters, and detectors to measure the angle of rotation accurately.