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Question 20227
JEE Physics · Medium

Electromagnetic Waves and Wave Optics: Double Refraction MCQ

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Double RefractionMediumQuestion 20227

Question

Double refraction (birefringence) occurs in:
  1. A
    All isotropic materials
  2. B
    Calcite and quartz — anisotropic crystals with two refractive indices
    Correct
  3. C
    Air
  4. D
    Water only under pressure

Correct answer

Calcite and quartz — anisotropic crystals with two refractive indices

Explanation

Birefringent crystals have two refractive indices (ordinary and extraordinary). An incident beam splits into two rays polarised perpendicular to each other. Calcite is the classic example, used to make wave plates and polarising prisms.

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