Double Refraction (Noun)
Meaning
Splitting a ray into two parallel rays polarized perpendicularly.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural phenomena.
Examples
- The phenomenon of double refraction occurs when a light ray passes through a birefringent material, such as calcite, splitting it into two parallel rays polarized perpendicularly to each other.
- Iceland spar exhibits double refraction as a result of the unusual arrangement of its internal crystal structure.
- When a beam of light travels through an anisotropic material, double refraction causes it to split into two separate beams with perpendicular polarizations.
- The unique optical properties of certain crystals are characterized by the ability to produce double refraction, resulting in distinct dual images when viewed through the material.
- Double refraction was a significant discovery in the study of optics and led to a greater understanding of light polarization and its interactions with matter.