Conoscopic interference pattern: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 00:31, 8 October 2011

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==Simplified discussion==

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A Conoscopic interference pattern or interference figure is the best way to determine if a mineral has one direction of single refraction or two directions of single refraction. (Herein after referred to as Birefringence) It is also used to tell which ray of light is faster in birefraction. The observed interference figure essentially shows all possible birefringence colors at once, including the extinctions. (in dark bands called isogyres)