Characteristics and geometrical nature of the prism

A prism is a solid body made of a homogeneous material, typically bounded by a system of surfaces. It is usually a triangular prism that is optically transparent.

Definition of a Prism

The term "prism" has several meanings. The origin of the word comes from the Greeks. It can refer to a mathematical concept, specifically a polyhedron. In the field of optics, this term is used for an optical prism. The most common meaning relates to perspective or viewpoint—meaning to look at something with regard to a specific angle or perspective.

Prisms are used to disperse light into a spectrum, in optical devices for total internal reflection, or for image inversion instead of mirrors.