PHALIN THAKKAR
Research and independent investigations
My independent work in polarisation began with a forward question: how much light should pass through an analyzer at a known angle? It then led to an inverse question: what can intensity readings tell me about an unknown polarisation direction?
I worked through Malus’ law and sequential projections before examining reconstruction. The answer depends on more than finding a minimum in a calculation. The reference intensity, angle calibration and uncertainty all affect what can be inferred.
The collection below follows that progression into measurement choices and a simple quantum communication model. It includes analytical results and computational illustrations, with physical validation described as a next step.
Featured independent investigation
Finding the hidden direction
I use I(a; φ) = 100 cos²(φ − a) with calibrated analyzer angles. A full precision least squares grid search recovers the generated 37.0° axis. The fit assumes fully linear input and a known scale; it does not remove the 180° equivalence, identify circular polarisation or rule out calibration error.
Explore the model, fit and residuals →Light, Measured
COLLECTION GUIDE
One question leads to the next.
Start with Reading the curve for the core derivation. Continue in order to see that model extended, inverted, and finally used as the classical foundation for an educational quantum communication model. Each study labels calculations, simulations, proposed measurements, assumptions, and limits separately.
Follow the sequence, or open the question that interests you most.
04 CONNECTED STUDIESUniversity research
Since Grade 10, I have worked with Prof. Prashant Mehta at Maharaja Sayajirao University. This has involved reading scientific literature and assisting with research that contributed to his publications. To follow ideas beyond the school curriculum, I have learned the mathematics needed to understand the reasoning behind them.
This work is separate from my independent polarisation collection.
Background and further reading
These are reading references, not my publications or a record of sources I previously read.
- Official JEE Advanced paper archive: primary examination papers for the past paper bridge.
- OpenStax: Polarization: established background on projection, intensity and Brewster’s angle.
- IBM Quantum Learning: Quantum Key Distribution: basis comparison and the distinction between baseline transmission and a fuller protocol.
- Wilkinson and colleagues: Complete Stokes vector analysis with a compact, portable rotating waveplate polarimeter: an example of calibrated optics for fuller polarisation measurement.