flint glass

noun

, Optics.

an optical glass of high dispersion and a relatively high index of refraction, composed of alkalis, lead oxide, and silica, with or without other bases, sometimes used as the diverging lens component of an achromatic lens.

flint glass

First recorded in 1665–75

For general purposes flint glass is vastly superior to the soft soda mentioned above.

Apparatus made of flint glass is less liable to crack and break at places of unequal thickness than if made of soda glass.

It should also be mentioned that flint glass has a much more brilliant appearance than soda glass.

With soda glass a very small irregularity will cause the joint to break when cold, but flint glass is much more long-suffering.

The flint-glass tube is then fused down upon the platinum wire, care being taken to avoid the presence of air bubbles.

April 24, 2024gallimaufry

[gal-uh-maw-free ]

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