birefringence

(bī′ri frinjəns)

noun

the splitting of a light ray, generally by a crystal, into two components that travel at different velocities and are polarized at right angles to each other

Origin: bi- + refringent

Related Forms:

See birefringence in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
The resolution or splitting of a light wave into two unequally reflected or transmitted waves by an optically anisotropic medium such as calcite or quartz. Also called double refraction.

Related Forms:

  • biˌre·frinˈgent adjective

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