birefringence

birefringence definition - medical

bi·re·frin·gence (bīˌrĭ-frĭnˈjəns)

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

Related Forms:

  • biˌre·frinˈgent adjective

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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