Decollimate

/dɪˈkɒlɪmeɪt/ verb

Definition

To destroy or break the collimation of a light beam or optical system, causing it to diverge or lose its parallel alignment.

Etymology

From de- (reverse) + collimate (to align parallel, from Latin collineare). An optical physics term describing the breakdown of beam alignment.

Kelly Says

In laser research, even tiny vibrations can decollimate a precisely aligned beam, which is why some laboratories are built on special floating foundations to keep experiments stable and beams true.

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