refractive index

noun

Definition of refractive index

: the ratio of the speed of radiation (such as light) in one medium (such as air, glass, or a vacuum) to that in another medium

Examples of refractive index in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An electro-optic modulator takes in a microwave signal, which changes the refractive index of a bit of glass. — Chris Lee, Ars Technica, "Careful phasing of a photonic qubit brings light under control," 8 Feb. 2018 Blue light has to work harder to shift the electrons (the refractive index is larger). — Chris Lee, Ars Technica, "Spinning glass ball rejects light from one direction," 27 June 2018 The electrons respond as if the light were redder (the refractive index decreases). — Chris Lee, Ars Technica, "Spinning glass ball rejects light from one direction," 27 June 2018 Instead, the authors look into partly reflective materials that have a high refractive index and low absorption. — John Timmer, Ars Technica, "The material science of building a light sail to take us to Alpha Centauri," 7 May 2018 As light passes through the glass, its frequency is changed by the periodic changes in refractive index. — Chris Lee, Ars Technica, "Careful phasing of a photonic qubit brings light under control," 8 Feb. 2018

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