Refraction (redirected from Refraction of waves)

refraction /re·frac·tion/ (re-frak´shun)

1. the act or process of refracting; specifically, the determination of the refractive errors of the eye and their correction with lenses.

Refraction by the eye in (A) emmetropia; (B) hyperopia; and (C) myopia.

2. the deviation of light in passing obliquely from one medium to another of different density.refrac´tive

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double refraction  refraction in which incident rays are divided into two refracted rays, so as to produce a double image.

dynamic refraction  the normal accommodation of the eye which is continually exerted without conscious effort.

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re·frac·tion (r-frkshn)

n.

1. The turning or bending of any wave, such as a light or sound wave, when it passes from one medium into another of different density.

2. The ability of the eye to bend light so that an image is focused on the retina.

3. Determination of the refractive characteristics of the eye and often the correction of refractive defects with lenses. Also called refringence.

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re·fraction·al, re·fractive adj.

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Refraction

The bending of light rays as they pass from one medium through another. Used to describe the action of the cornea and lens on light rays as they enter they eye. Also used to describe the determination and measurement of the eye's focusing system by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Mentioned in: Astigmatism, Hyperopia, Myopia