On the form of the wave-surface of refraction

Abstract

The graphic method used by Prof. R. W. Wood for investigating the wave-surface of reflection is applied to the wave-surface of refraction. A series of wave-surfaces is drawn for each of a number of plane or spherical refracting surfaces, the incident wave being plane or spherical. It is shown that in each series the wave-surfaces are successively of one of the following types: Saucer. Saucer with inturned edges. Closed surface. Goblet. Basin. The forms of these types are briefly described and some properties of the wave-surfaces are discussed.