Abstract
Expressions for the complex amplitude reflection and transmission coefficients together with those for the reflectivity and transmissivity of a single basal plane and a plane parallel crystal plate, are derived for absorbing crystals belonging to symmetry classes as high or higher than orthorhombic symmetry. These expressions are presented in a form that could be used readily for the experimental determination of the optical constants of absorbing crystals. Polarization of the waves parallel and perpendicular to the plane of incidence, which coincide with a crystallographic principal plane are considered.