Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
refract
This term is primarily used in scientific and technical contexts, specifically within physics and optics. It describes the precise physical phenomenon where a wave changes speed and direction upon entering a new medium, such as light moving from air into glass. It is a neutral, descriptive term devoid of emotional connotation.
While "bend" is often used as a layman's synonym to describe the visual effect of refraction, "refract" is the correct terminology for the actual physical process. Using "refract" signals a higher register of technical precision and is expected in academic or professional scientific discourse.
Meanings
Examples
A prism is used to refract light into a spectrum of colors.
Light rays refract as they pass from air into water.
The thick glass lens will refract the beam of light to a single point.
Look how the water in the pool makes the tiles seem to shift because the light refracts.
The ancient crystal was designed to refract magical energy across the room.
Does the atmosphere refract starlight enough to cause a twinkle effect?
I wonder if this diamond can refract light more efficiently than a sapphire.
The cornea helps to refract incoming light so it focuses on the retina.