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Glite Dictionary
Iceland spar

Iceland spar

9.9
A clear mineral crystal that splits light into two rays that people use in optical experiments
  • noun
  • /ˈaɪs.lænd spɑr/
  • Specialized
translation icon : espar de Islandia
  • Optical experiments often use Iceland spar to demonstrate double refraction.

Examples

  • The geologist examined a sample of Iceland spar under the microscope.

  • Historically, Iceland spar was essential in the development of polarizing equipment.

  • The geologist studied Iceland spar for its unique optical properties.

  • Did you know that Iceland spar can polarize light?

  • In polarizing microscopes, Iceland spar is commonly used because of its ability to split light into two beams.

  • Many scientists prefer Iceland spar for optical experiments due to its unique double refraction properties.

  • The clear nature of Iceland spar makes it ideal for studying light behavior in various scientific applications.

Surface Forms

Iceland spar singular
Iceland spars plural

Morphology

Iceland + spar

The phrase is a straightforward place-name + noun compound: a B1 learner who knows 'Iceland' and 'spar' can infer it refers to a type of spar (mineral) associated with Iceland. The meaning is referential and compositional (a mineral variety from Iceland) rather than idiomatic or metaphorical, so it is transparent.

Etymology

Iceland spar comes from clear crystals first found in Iceland; spar was an old word for a shiny mineral. These crystals split light so things look 'double', so scientists used them in microscopes that study light and the name now means the clear calcite known for this optical effect.