General Aim Michelson Interferometer Simulation
To determine the refractive index of a thin transparent plate
Method
Michelson’s interferometer simulation procedure.
Learning Objectives (ILOs)
By the end of Michelson interferometer experiment, the student should be able:
Construct the Michelson Interferometer Simulation.
Recognize the function of each component in the interferometer simulation.
Understand the operation of the interferometer.
Interpret the observed in the interference pattern.
Theoretical Background / Context
- A monochromatic light beam from a laser source is splitted into two beams.
- The two beams are reflected back from two mirrors to a screen, where an interference pattern is observed.
- By moving one of the two mirrors or both, the phase difference between the two beams changes and the fringes crossing the field of vision changes in number accordingly.
Principle Work of Michelson Interferometer Virtual Lab
- The number of fringes crossing the field of vision is counted as one (or both) of the two mirrors is moved or by rotating the glass plate stage through angle .
- Hence the wavelength of the laser and the refractive index of the glass plate could be determined.
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