index ellipsoid

A three-dimensional representation of the refractive indices of an isotropic, uniaxial, or biaxial material, where the length of each axis is proportional to the refractive index of that material along that axis.

Synonyms: optical indicatrix

See also: birefringence, polarized light, polarized light microscopy

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Principles of Birefringence

Defined as double refraction of light in a transparent, molecularly ordered material.