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optics, a prism is a transparent optical element with flat, polished surfaces that refract light. The exact angles between the surfaces depend on the application. The traditional geometrical shape is that of a triangular prism with a triangular base and rectangular sides, and in colloquial use "prism" usually refers to this type. Some types of optical prism are not in fact in the shape of geometric prisms. Prisms are typically made out of glass, but can be made from any material that is transparent to the wavelengths for which they are designed.

A prism can be used to break light up into its constituent spectral colors (the colors of the rainbow). Prisms can also be used to reflect light, or to split light into components with different polarizations.

14 years ago. Rating: 3
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A gaol for drunks? "I got hick put in hick prism."

14 years ago. Rating: 0
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"Out here in (ARIZONA) it's where the (Sheriff) puts you when you done some-thin wrong."

14 years ago. Rating: 0
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