Prism, in optics, a piece of translucent glass or crystal used to form a spectrum of light separated according to colors. Its cross section is usually triangular. The light becomes separated because different wavelengths or frequencies are refracted (bent) by different amounts as they enter the prism obliquely and again as they leave it (see refraction). The shorter wavelengths, toward the blue or violet end of the spectrum, are refracted by the greatest amount; the longer wavelengths, toward the red end, are refracted the least. The Nicol prism is a special type of prism made of calcite; it is used for polarization of light.
Matter is composed of atoms or groups of atoms called molecules. The arrangement of particles in a material depends on the physical state of the substance. In a solid, particles form a compact structure that resists flow. Particles in a liquid have more energy than those in a solid. They can flow past one another, but they remain close. Particles in a gas have the most energy. They move rapidly and are separated from one another by relatively large distances.
Popular Posts
-
. Many similarities exist between electric and magnetic phenomena. A magnet has two opposite poles, referred to as north and south. Opposit... -
. The relationship between current, voltage, and resistance is given by Ohm’s law. This law states that the amount of current passing throu...
-
Quantum Theory, in physics, description of the particles that make up matter and how they interact with each other and with energy. Quantum ...
-
. Periodic Table, table of the chemical elements arranged to illustrate patterns of recurring chemical and physical properties. Elements, su... -
Electromagnetic Radiation is the energy waves produced by the oscillation or acceleration of an electric charge. Electromagnetic waves have ...