Analyzer

ANALYZER, an instrument that makes it possible to find the plane of polarization of light. Any optical system that polarizes light can serve as an A. The light transmitted by the A. reaches maximum brightness when the plane of polarization of the instrument is parallel to the plane in which the light being examined itself is polarized. With perpendicular positioning, the brightness is minimal. The analyzer used in optical technology serves to determine certain properties of glasses. For example, in glass that is tightly held in a frame, a state of internal tension develops, in which the glass becomes very brittle, easily breaking from the slightest impact, temperature fluctuations, etc. This state of internal tension can be detected if polarized light is passed through the glass. The analyzer serves to recognize the state of polarization. The ray analyzer was introduced into radiotherapy by Glocker in 1916 for qualimetry (see). It is based on the property of various metals to emit characteristic rays when struck by X-rays of a certain wavelength. The ray analyzer is constructed in the form of a ray-proof box, on the front wall of which there is a slit 1x10 cm; inside it, at an angle of 45° to the path of the rays, are adjacent plates of various metals arranged crosswise; opposite which on the side wall of the box is placed a light-sensitive plate. The degree of blackening of the light-sensitive plate corresponds to the characteristic rays, and from this one judges the presence in the X-ray beam of rays of a certain wavelength.