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prashant07
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What is an optic axis of a calcite crystal ?
The optic axis of a calcite crystal is an imaginary line passing through the center of the crystal, along which light passes without experiencing any double refraction.
The optic axis determines whether light passing through a calcite crystal will experience double refraction or not. If the light travels parallel to the optic axis, it will not be split into two polarized rays. However, if the light travels at an angle to the optic axis, it will be split into two rays with different refractive indices.
The optic axis of a calcite crystal can be determined using a polarizing microscope. When the crystal is rotated under the microscope, the light passing through it will either appear bright or dark depending on the orientation of the crystal's optic axis.
The optic axis of a calcite crystal is parallel to the crystal's hexagonal c-axis, which is its longest axis. This is because calcite crystals have a unique crystal structure called trigonal, which has three-fold symmetry around the c-axis.
The optic axis of a calcite crystal is an important factor in determining its optical properties, such as double refraction. This information is used in various scientific fields, such as geology, mineralogy, and material science, to study the properties and behavior of calcite crystals and their applications in different industries.