It generally doesn't. In fact, many imaging models used for estimating resolution assume scalar field (sort of equivalent to single polarization), because it's mathematically simpler but gives same results when both polarization directions are considered. Could you provide an example of such a resolution improvement?

On the other hand, for certain objects (especially with birefringence) and/or illumination methods, polarization can serve as a source of image contrast, or a way to enhance image contrast. Check out the link below:

https://www.microscopyu.com/techniques/polarized-light/polarized-light-microscopy

I would also be interested in an example. Resolution is a function of wavelength and a linear polarizer should just be removing phases from the beam, not filtering wavelengths.

I guess it is possible the polarizer could also improve the quality of the beam by filtering, but I would be surprised if could change resolution.

A polarizer will help to remove specular reflection from the surface and see the subsurface layer.

Thank you all for your responses.

We know that polarizers improve image quality by removing glare, haze, and reflections and also enhance image contrast.

We know that we could not work with the Electric field and we only detect the intensity of light (I proportional with E^2) in detectors.

If we suppose that there are two polarization light (s and p ) in imaging systems that hitting detector simultaneously.

so my question is: are these two s and p polarizations interference with each other when hit the detector? if yes what is the consequence of that?

Hi Aydin,

I think it is clear that more information about the actual system you are using is needed. Type of detector, wavelength and radiation source would be helpful.

If you are using a photon transducer: (photoelectric detectors, quantum detectors). Resolution shouldn't be changed by polarization.

However, if you are using thermal transducers it might be possible (although highly unlikely) that thermal contamination would give lower resolution for a non-polarized beam, simultaneously using two polarized beams as you mention.

Dear William,

Thank you for your response.

Actually the light source that we simulate is a point source light that has spectral width of 50 nm with peak around 400 nm and the detector is photo multiplier tube.

Bests