lead glass
Noun: A type of glass that contains lead oxide as a key component. This addition gives the glass distinctive properties, most notably a high refractive index, which makes it brilliant and excellent for dispersing light.
"Lead glass" is used as a compound noun to specify this particular type of material. It is commonly discussed in contexts of manufacturing, optics, art, and tableware. * The antique decanter was made of fine lead glass, which sparkled brilliantly in the light. * For the lens experiment, they needed lead glass due to its high refractive index. * Crystal stemware is often made from lead glass.
- Technical Context: In scientific and industrial contexts, "lead glass" is specified for its density and ability to block radiation, leading to its use in radiation shielding windows.
- The viewing window in the laboratory was made of thick lead glass to protect the researchers.
- Lead crystal: A common term for high-quality lead glass, especially when cut or engraved, used for decorative items and glassware. While often used interchangeably with "lead glass," "crystal" may imply a specific standard of lead content and craftsmanship.
- Flint glass: An older, synonymous term for lead glass, historically used in optics.
- Crystal glass
- Flint glass (historical)
The core meaning of "lead glass" is defined by its composition (containing lead oxide) and its resulting optical property (high refractive index). It does not refer to glass used for leading or in leaded windows; that is a separate concept involving strips of lead holding panes of glass together.
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glass containing lead oxide; has a high refractive index
