optic rotation

op·ti·c ro·ta·tion

the change in the plane of polarization of polarized light of a given wavelength on passing through optically active substances; measured in terms of specific rotation by polarimetry, an important tool in chemical structural work, especially on carbohydrates.

op·tic ro·ta·tion

(op'tik rō-tā'shŭn)

The change in the plane of polarization of polarized light of a given wavelength on passing through optically active substances; measured in terms of specific rotation by polarimetry, an important tool in chemical structural work, especially on carbohydrates.