Definition

The phenomenon where light is split into two different rays when it passes through certain materials that have different properties in different directions.

Example

Birefringence can be observed in crystals like calcite, where light behaves differently depending on the direction it travels.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of birefringence?

Yeah, I think it's related to how light behaves in certain materials, right?

Exactly! It happens when light splits into two rays in something like quartz.

That's pretty cool! I love learning about how light interacts with different substances.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Birefringence → It is formed from "bi-" (meaning two) and "refringere" (meaning to break or bend). The term describes the property of a material that has two different refractive indices, causing light to be bent in two different ways as it passes through.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('bi-') ways that light can 'bend' ('refringere') when it passes through a material, which is what birefringence means.

Visually Confused Words