Polarizing beam splitter

A polarizing beam splitter is an optical device that separates light into two beams based on the light's polarization, which is the orientation of its electromagnetic waves. When unpolarized or differently polarized light hits the splitter, it reflects one polarization direction while allowing the other to pass through. This property is useful in various applications, such as controlling laser beams, reducing glare, and improving imaging or communication systems. Essentially, it acts as a filter that sorts incoming light into two streams: one polarized in a specific direction and the other polarized differently.