Light Pipes - Ulexite, 6A44.40
Topic and Concept:
Geometrical Optics, 6A44. Total Internal Reflection
Location:
Cabinet: Optics (OP)
Bay: (A1)
Shelf: #1
Abstract:
Ulexite is a naturally occurring mineral which consists of parallel fibers. Each fiber may act as a light pipe.
Equipment |
Location |
ID Number |
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Ulexite crystal |
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Setup and Procedure:
Place the Ulexite sample above printed text. As one moves one's head around, or moves the Ulexite, it appears as if the text is written on the top of the ulexite.
Discussion:
Ulexite is birefringent, and the "light pipe" phenomenon it displays is a consequency of the birefringence and the fibrotic structure.
Videos:
References:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ulexite