dioptrics

1 definition found

dioptrics - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Dioptrics \Di*op"trics\, n. [Gr. ? ?: cf. F. dioptrique.]
     (Optics)
     The science of the refraction of light; that part of
     geometrical optics which treats of the laws of the refraction
     of light in passing from one medium into another, or through
     different mediums, as air, water, or glass, and esp. through
     different lenses; -- distinguished from catoptrics, which
     refers to reflected light.
     [1913 Webster]