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| Experimental Study on Full-Parameter Measurementof Birefringence in Natural Calcite#br# |
| FENG Wei，YANG Tianfang，ZHAI Jiawe
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| China University of Petroleum-Beijing at Karamay，Karamay 834000，China |
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Abstract The optical axis and principal refractive indices are fundamental parameters for understanding the
birefringence behavior of crystals．Conventional measurement methods often suffer from strict sample preparation
requirements，high instrument costs，and complex calculation processes，which hinder their integration into
laboratory courses． This study presents an experimental approach，based on Huygens ＇ principle and
birefringence polarization，for the comprehensive measurement of all birefringence parameters in natural
crystals．The principal refractive index of the ordinary wave(n)is first determined using the law of refraction．
The optical axis orientation is then identified based on the polarization characteristics or the displacement
direction of the birefringent beams． Finally，the principal refractive index of the extraordinary wave(n)is
derived from the beam displacement．Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method offers high
measurement accuracy and excellent setup stability．It facilitates a deeper understanding of crystal birefringence
among students and holds significant value for teaching and broader dissemination．
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Published: 25 February 2026
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