DICHROISCOPE Meaning and
Definition
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A dichroiscope is a specialized tool used in gemology and mineralogy to identify the optical properties of gemstones and minerals. Derived from the Greek words "dichroos" meaning two-colored and "skopein" meaning to see, a dichroiscope allows the user to observe the distinct dichroic or pleochroic behavior exhibited by certain materials when viewed through polarized light.
The instrument consists of a sturdy metal housing containing a light source, typically an incandescent bulb or LED, and a set of polarizing filters. It also features a viewing window, usually fitted with a magnifying lens, through which the gemstone or mineral is examined. By setting the polarizing filters at specific angles, the dichroiscope controls the alignment of light waves and enables the user to observe the gemstone or mineral's optical behavior.
When a gemstone or mineral is placed within the dichroiscope's viewing window, the instrument reveals the gem's dichroic colors – the distinct hues observed when the material is rotated or tilted. This phenomenon occurs due to the unequal absorption and transmission of light waves within the crystal lattice structure of the gemstone or mineral. By examining the gemstone's dichroic or pleochroic properties, gemologists can identify and distinguish different types of gemstones, determine their authenticity, and assess their overall quality.
In summary, a dichroiscope is an invaluable tool used in gemological and mineralogical studies, allowing for the identification and examination of a gemstone or mineral's dichroic or pleochroic behavior under polarized light.
Common Misspellings for DICHROISCOPE
- sichroiscope
- xichroiscope
- cichroiscope
- fichroiscope
- richroiscope
- eichroiscope
- duchroiscope
- djchroiscope
- dkchroiscope
- dochroiscope
- d9chroiscope
- d8chroiscope
- dixhroiscope
- divhroiscope
- difhroiscope
- didhroiscope
- dicgroiscope
- dicbroiscope
- dicnroiscope
Etymology of DICHROISCOPE
The word "dichroiscope" is derived from two components: "dichro" and "scope".
1. "Dichro" comes from the Greek word "dikhrós", which means "two colors". It is a combination of "dí-" meaning "two" and "khrṓs" meaning "color".
2. "Scope" is derived from the Greek word "skopéin", which means "to look at" or "to examine".
When these two components are combined, "dichroiscope" refers to a device or instrument used for examining or observing two colors, particularly to analyze the pleochroism (variation in color) of a mineral or gemstone when viewed from different angles.
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