In optics, a dispersive prism is a type of optical prism, normally having the shape of a geometrical triangular prism.

It is
the most widely-known type of optical prism, although perhaps not the most common in actual use. Triangular prisms
are used to disperse light, that is to break light up into its spectral components. This dispersion occurs because the angle
of refraction is dependent on the refractive index, which in turn is dependent on the wavelength. This effect can also
be used to measure the refractive index of the prism’s material with high accuracy. In such a measurement, the prism is
placed on the central rotary platform of an optical spectrometer with the incident light beam adjusted such that the
refracted beam is at minimum deviation. The refractive index can then be computed using the apex angle and the angle
of minimum deviation.

A good mathematical description single-prism dispersion is given by Born and Wolf.

The case of multiple-prism dispersion is treated by Duarte.

Although the refractive index is dependent on the wavelength in every material, some materials have a much more pow-
erful wavelength dependence (are much more dispersive) than others. Crown glasses such as BK7 have a relatively small
dispersion, while flint glasses have a much stronger dispersion (for visible light) and hence are more suitable for use in
dispersive prisms. Fused quartz is used in the ultraviolet as normal glasses lose their transparency there.

The top angle of the prism (the upper corner in the accompanying picture) can be chosen to influence the exact disper-
sion characteristics. However, it is typically chosen such that both the incoming and outgoing light rays hit the surface
approximately at the Brewster angle, so that reflection losses are minimized. An example is the use of this type of prisms
in prism compressors for generation of ultrafast laser pulses.

The prism is also seen on the cover of Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon. The graphic on the album cover shows
the ray of light remaining white while passing through the prism and refracting to the entire visible light spectrum only
upon leaving the prism. This image is inaccurate because the different wavelength of different colors of light cause them
to refract as soon as they enter the prism. The light then creates lights in the designated places.

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