Nicol prism

[ nik-uhl ]

noun

, Optics.

1. one of a pair of prisms used to produce and analyze plane-polarized light in a polarizing microscope.

Nicol prism

/ ˈnɪkəl /

noun

1. a device composed of two prisms of Iceland spar or calcite cut at specified angles and cemented together with Canada balsam. It is used for producing plane-polarized light

Word History and Origins

Origin of Nicol prism¹

First recorded in 1870–75; named after William Nicol (1768–1851), British physicist, its inventor

Word History and Origins

Origin of Nicol prism¹

C19: named after William Nicol (?1768–1851), Scottish physicist, its inventor

Example Sentences

On the table of the sahibs are scattered lots of Nicol prisms, lens and eye-pieces.

From New York Times

The rotation of the Nicol prism with the vernier is performed by means of an endless screw.

From Project Gutenberg

The circle revolving with the Nicol prism for changing the intensity of the star, has a diameter of 14 cm. and reads by means of two verniers to 6 min.

From Project Gutenberg

Among others, the carefully considered modifications of the Nicol prism which have recently been devised by Prof. S.P.

From Project Gutenberg

Let us now mount our Nicol prisms, and cross them as we crossed the tourmaline.

From Project Gutenberg