Interferometers

Interferometers

Interferometers are scientific instruments used to measure the properties of light waves. They work by splitting a beam of light into two separate beams that travel different paths before recombining, creating an interference pattern that can be analyzed to determine various characteristics of the light. Interferometers have a wide range of applications in fields such as astronomy, physics, and engineering. One of the most common types of interferometers is the Michelson interferometer, which was invented by Albert Michelson in the late 19th century. It consists of a beam splitter that divides a beam of light into two separate paths, which are then reflected back and recombined at the beam splitter. The resulting interference pattern can be used to measure the wavelength of the light, as well as other properties such as the refractive index of a material. Another type of interferometer is the Fabry-Perot interferometer, which uses a pair of partially reflecting mirrors to create multiple reflections of the light between them. This produces a series of interference patterns that can be used to measure the spectral properties of the light, such as its frequency or bandwidth. Interferometers have many practical applications, such as measuring the distance between two objects with extreme precision. They are also used in astronomy to measure the size and shape of stars, as well as to detect exoplanets by measuring the slight wobble of a star caused by the gravitational pull of an orbiting planet.

Michelson interferometer, Fabry-Perot interferometer, interference pattern, wavelength, refractive index, spectral properties, precision measurement, astronomy, exoplanets

— Patrick Lewis

CITATION : "Patrick Lewis. 'Interferometers.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=357885 (Accessed on November 23, 2024)"