re
frac
tion
1
the amount by which a propagating wave is bent
Synonyms:
2
the bending of the wave's path as it passes from one medium to another; caused by a change in its speed or direction
- The refraction of light through the water created a rainbow effect.
- Refraction causes objects underwater to appear closer than they actually are.
- The scientist studied the refraction of waves as they entered different materials.
- The optical illusion was caused by the refraction of light through the glass.
- The physicist measured the angle of refraction to study material properties.