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
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Recent Examples of refractive index from the Web
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As light passes through the glass, its frequency is changed by the periodic changes in refractive index.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'refractive index.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of refractive index
1839
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about refractive index
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about refractive index
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