noun

refraction

refraction

The refraction of light causes the straw to look bent.

The refraction of light causes the straw to look bent.

((the refraction of sth.)) the bending of (sth.) The refraction of light is a key concept in optics.

Synonyms: bending, deflection

From Latin 're-' (back) + 'frangere' (to break). Literally 'a breaking back'.

Think of a 'fracture' or 'break' in the path of light as it passes through a medium.

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