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refraction

noun

/rɪˈfrækʃᵊn/

IPA:

$How to pronounce refraction (audio)$

Dictionary definition of refraction

The bending of light as it passes through a medium of different density, such as from air to water or from glass to air.
"The astronomer used the principles of refraction to study the behavior of starlight."

Detailed meaning of refraction

When light passes from one medium to another at an angle, the speed of the light changes, causing the direction of the light to bend. This phenomenon is what causes objects to appear distorted when viewed through water or glass. Refraction is a fundamental concept in physics and plays a crucial role in the functioning of optical instruments such as lenses, prisms, and telescopes. It is also an important concept in atmospheric science, as refraction affects the behavior of light in the atmosphere and is responsible for phenomena such as mirages and the bending of starlight. Overall, the term "refraction" conveys a sense of the complex and fascinating behavior of light as it interacts with different media, and plays a crucial role in our understanding of optics and the natural world.

Example sentences containing refraction

1. The physics class studied the phenomenon of refraction in water.
2. A prism demonstrates the principles of light refraction.
3. Refraction causes a pencil in water to appear bent.
4. The scientist explained the refraction of light in lenses.
5. The rainbow's colors result from light's refraction in raindrops.
6. Diving goggles are designed to minimize refraction underwater.

History and etymology of refraction

The noun 'refraction' traces its origins to the Latin word 'refractio,' which is derived from 'refringere,' meaning 'to break up' or 'to bend back.' Etymologically, 'refraction' signifies the phenomenon where light or other waves appear to break or bend as they transition from one medium to another with a different density, such as from air to water or from glass to air. This bending of light is a consequence of its change in speed and direction when it encounters different mediums, and the term 'refraction' has been used for centuries to describe this optical phenomenon. Its etymology underscores the idea that light waves seem to alter their path when they encounter a boundary between substances with varying optical properties, leading to the bending effect that is central to the concept of refraction.

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Further usage examples of refraction

1. Understanding refraction is crucial in designing optical devices.
2. Mirages occur due to atmospheric refraction.
3. The photographer captured a stunning image of light refraction.
4. The physics teacher explained how refraction affects vision.
5. Astronomers consider atmospheric refraction when observing stars.
6. Diamonds' sparkle is due to internal light refraction.
7. Optical illusions often involve refraction effects.
8. The eye's lens relies on refraction to focus on objects.
9. Fiber optic cables use refraction to transmit data.
10. The artist portrayed the beauty of light refraction in a painting.
11. A crystal's brilliance is a result of its internal refraction.
12. Fish appear closer to the water's surface due to refraction.
13. Architects consider light refraction in building design.
14. Understanding refraction is essential for designing effective eyeglasses.
15. The scientist studied the refraction of light through a prism to understand the properties of color.
16. The photographer used the principles of refraction to create a stunning image of a rainbow.
17. The diver observed the refraction of sunlight as it passed through the surface of the water.
18. The optometrist examined the patient's eyes to correct for the refraction of light.
19. The engineer designed a lens that minimized the refraction of light and improved image clarity.
20. The artist used the concept of refraction to create a series of abstract paintings that played with the distortion of light.
21. The physicist developed a theory of refraction that explained the behavior of light in different media.
22. The pilot learned how to account for the refraction of light when navigating at high altitudes.
23. The weather forecaster used the principles of refraction to predict the likelihood of a mirage.
24. The geologist studied the refraction of seismic waves to map the structure of the earth's interior.
25. The architect designed a building with large windows that took advantage of the refraction of light to create a sense of spaciousness and lightness.