nounfemininepl: refractions
refração
1. The bending of light, sound, or other waves when passing from one medium to another of different density
The refraction of light through a prism creates a rainbow.
A refração da luz através de um prisma cria um arco-íris.
2. In ophthalmology, the determination of refractive errors in the eye to prescribe corrective lenses
The optometrist performed a refraction test to determine the patient's prescription.
O oftalmologista realizou um teste de refração para determinar a prescrição do paciente.
3. The deviation of a ray or beam from a straight path due to a change in the medium's refractive index
Water refraction makes objects underwater appear closer than they actually are.
A refração da água faz objetos submersos parecerem mais próximos do que realmente estão.
The term 'refração' is primarily used in scientific and medical contexts in both Brazil and Portugal. In ophthalmology, eye exams (called 'testes de refração') are standard practice. The concept is taught in physics classes across Portuguese-speaking countries as part of wave and optics education. There are no significant cultural variations in usage between Brazil and Portugal.
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