A light microscopy technique that uses polarized light and prisms to create high-contrast images of transparent specimens by detecting small differences in optical path length. It produces a pseudo-3D relief effect that enhances edge detection and fine structural details.
Named for its mechanism: 'differential' (detecting differences), 'interference' (wave interaction), and 'contrast' (image enhancement). Developed by Georges Nomarski in the 1950s, building on earlier work with polarized light microscopy and interference phenomena.
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