birefringence
/ˌbaɪrɪˈfrɪndʒəns/
noun
- The property of a material that splits a single light ray into two different rays, each traveling at a different speed, often seen in crystals like calcite.
- Calcite is famous for its strong birefringence, which makes objects viewed through it appear double.
- The birefringence of certain plastics can create colorful patterns when viewed under polarized light.
- Scientists use birefringence to study the internal structure of minerals and polymers.
Synonyms