birefringence

[ bahy-ri-frin-juh ns ]
/ ˌbaɪ rɪˈfrɪn dʒəns /

noun Optics.

Origin of birefringence

First recorded in 1885–90; bi-1 + refringence

OTHER WORDS FROM birefringence

bi·re·frin·gent, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for birefringence

British Dictionary definitions for birefringence

birefringence
/ (ˌbaɪrɪˈfrɪndʒəns) /

noun

another name for double refraction

Derived forms of birefringence

birefringent, adjective

Medical definitions for birefringence

birefringence
[ bī′rĭ-frĭnjəns ]

n.

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

Other words from birefringence

bi′re•fringent adj.

Scientific definitions for birefringence

birefringence
[ bī′rĭ-frĭnjəns ]

The property or capacity of splitting a beam of light into two beams, each refracted at a different angle, and each polarized at a right angle to the other. Certain crystals such as calcite and quartz have this property.
The difference in the index of refraction between two beams passing through a substance that has this property. See also refraction index of refraction.