Refraction

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Refraction

Refraction (/rɪˈfrækʃən/) is a fundamental concept in the field of optics and ophthalmology. It refers to the change in direction of a wave passing from one medium to another caused by its change in speed. In the context of vision, refraction is the bending of light as it passes through the cornea and lens of the eye to focus on the retina.

Etymology

The term 'refraction' originates from the Latin word 'refractio', which means 'breaking up'. It was first used in the English language in the 14th century to describe the bending of light.

Related Terms

  • Optics: The scientific study of light and vision.
  • Ophthalmology: The branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.
  • Cornea: The transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber.
  • Lens (anatomy): A transparent, biconvex structure in the eye that, along with the cornea, helps to refract light to be focused on the retina.
  • Retina: The light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye.

See Also

External links

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