Double Refraction Calcite - enhanced version

3D Model

This model adds more detail to the orginal double refraction model. As well as the splitting of incident light into two rays, it demonstrates that both are polarised and have vibration planes (blue and green ribbons) perpendicular to each other. What is additional in this model is the vibration direction has been added as a waveform. Things to notice include:

(1) The wavelength of light within the crystal is shorter than in the surrounding air (matching the slowing of the light)

(2) Due to calcite being optically negative, the wavelength of the O-ray is shorter than the E-ray because the O-ray has the higher refractive index (and is also slower).

(3) The vibration direction of the O-ray is still perpendicular to the ray path (as with ‘normal’ light, O=ordinary) and also to the optic axis. However, the vibration direction of the E-ray is not perpendicular to its ray path. Rather, it vibrates parallel to the optic axis, causing a ‘skewed’ waveform (E=extraordinary).