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On the Use of a Michelson Interferometer to - Harvey Mudd College

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The document details an experiment using a Michelson interferometer to measure the index of refraction of helium gas by analyzing fringe patterns as pressure changes. It describes modifications to LabView and Python code for improved data collection and analysis, resulting in a refined measurement of the index of refraction at 1 + (35.98 ± 0.05) × 10−6. The study also explores the relationship between pressure and time, employing Fourier transform techniques for data analysis, ultimately demonstrating the effectiveness of these methods in achieving precise results.

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What was the Michelson interferometer designed to study the nature of?

Michelson interferometers can be used to measure the speed of light in different mediums, precisely measure the exact position of an object, break light up into a spectrum, test optical components, and to study wind and temperature patterns (especially in the upper atmosphere).

How is a Michelson interferometer used to measure the refractive index of a gas?

The Michelson interferometer can be used to measure the index of refraction of a gas by placing an evacuated transparent tube in the light path along one arm of the device. Fringe shifts occur as the gas is slowly added to the tube.

What was the purpose of Michelsons interferometer experiment?

The Michelson interferometer was famously used in the Michelson-Morley experiment, which attempted to measure Earths velocity against the ether that was then thought to make up the basic substratum of the universe and to be the medium through which light moved.

What was the goal of Michelsons experiment?

it was designed to detect the motion of the earth through the luminiferous aether, a theoretical substance which, ing to 19th century physicists, was essential to the transmission of light.

What is the purpose of the Michelson interferometer experiment?

What is the purpose of Michelson interferometer? A Michelson interferometer works like other interferometer designs but is special, as it was used to help disprove the existence of the the luminiferous aether (or ether) that was hypothesized to support the propagation of light waves in our universe.

What does the Michelson interferometer primarily measure?

A Michelson interferometer is a device that consists of two optical paths and is used to measure length variations or detect ultrasound vibrations.

What is the main purpose of an interferometer?

The MichelsonMorley experiment was an attempt to measure the motion of the Earth relative to the luminiferous aether, a supposed medium permeating space that was thought to be the carrier of light waves.