BECKE LENS Meaning and
Definition
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A Becke lens, also known as a Becke line, is an optical phenomenon observed in microscopy that refers to the formation of a bright or dark halo surrounding the boundaries of a specimen. It occurs when the refractive indices of the medium surrounding the sample and the medium inside the sample differ from each other.
The Becke lens effect can be observed when a specimen is immersed in either a medium of lower or higher refractive index than the surrounding medium. When the refractive index of the specimen is lower than the medium, a dark halo is seen surrounding the edges of the specimen. Conversely, if the refractive index of the specimen is higher than the surrounding medium, a bright halo is observed instead.
The Becke lens effect is caused by the difference in refractive index between the specimen and the medium. As light passes through the boundaries, it undergoes refraction, bending towards or away from the specimen. This bending of light rays creates a contrast or brightness variation at the edges of the specimen, leading to the appearance of a halo.
The Becke lens effect has several practical applications in microscopy, particularly in the field of materials science. It can be used to determine the refractive index of a material, aiding in its characterization. Additionally, it can assist in distinguishing between different regions with varying compositions or densities within a sample.
Overall, the Becke lens phenomenon in microscopy provides valuable information about the refractive properties and boundaries of specimens, contributing to our understanding and analysis of materials.
Etymology of BECKE LENS
The term "Becke lens" is derived from the name of its inventor, Friedrich Adolf Becke. Becke was an Austrian mineralogist and chemist who first described and used this type of lens in the early 20th century. It is named after him as a tribute and recognition of his contributions to the field of optics.
