double refraction

noun

, Optics.

1. the separation of a ray of light into two unequally refracted, plane-polarized rays of orthogonal polarizations, occurring in crystals in which the velocity of light rays is not the same in all directions.

double refraction

noun

1. the splitting of a ray of unpolarized light into two unequally refracted rays polarized in mutually perpendicular planes Also calledbirefringence

Word History and Origins

Origin of double refraction¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

The largest may become crystalline, changing suddenly into polyhedral bodies with evident double refraction and the optical properties belonging to crystals.

From Project Gutenberg

A more important discovery was that of double refraction temporarily produced in viscous liquids.

From Project Gutenberg

The existence of internal strains in glass can be readily recognized by examination in polarized light, any signs of double refraction indicating the existence of strain.

From Project Gutenberg

History of the Inductive Sciences," observes that, "by the accidental placing of a rhomb of calcareous spar, upon a book or line, Bartholinus discovered the property of the double refraction of light.

From Project Gutenberg

It is translucent, or transparent, and often exhibits the property of double refraction.

From Project Gutenberg