'Decomposition of light' definitions:

Definition of 'Decomposition of light'

From: GCIDE
  • Decomposition \De*com`po*si"tion\, n. [Pref. de- (in sense 3 intensive) + composition: cf. F. d['e]composition. Cf. Decomposition.]
  • 1. The act or process of resolving the constituent parts of a compound body or substance into its elementary parts; separation into constituent part; analysis; the decay or dissolution consequent on the removal or alteration of some of the ingredients of a compound; disintegration; as, the decomposition of wood, rocks, etc. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. The state of being reduced into original elements. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. Repeated composition; a combination of compounds. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]
  • Decomposition of forces. Same as Resolution of forces, under Resolution.
  • Decomposition of light, the division of light into the prismatic colors. [1913 Webster]