A polarimeter is a basic scientific instrument. Polarimetry can be used to measure various optical properties of materials, including linear birefringence, circular birefringence (also known as optical rotation or optical rotational dispersion), linear dichroism, circular dichroism, and scattering. To measure these different properties, there are many designs of polarimeters, . The most sensitive are based on interferometers, while the more conventional polarimeters are based on arrangements of polarizing filters, wave plates, or other devices.
