RWalker1987
Oct30-08, 08:04 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A Michelson interferometer is operated in a vacuum, using monochromatic
light of wavelength 589 nm. The interferometer is set up so that the distances
between the moving mirror and the beam splitter and the fixed mirror and the
beam splitter are equal. A parallel-sided object 1.2 cm in length and refractive
index 1.4900 is then placed between the fixed mirror and the beam splitter.
What is the change in the optical path length of the fixed arm that results?
2. Relevant equations
this is were I'm stuck, I dont know what equation to use, I have looked all over for an equation, but most use frequency
3. The attempt at a solution
A Michelson interferometer is operated in a vacuum, using monochromatic
light of wavelength 589 nm. The interferometer is set up so that the distances
between the moving mirror and the beam splitter and the fixed mirror and the
beam splitter are equal. A parallel-sided object 1.2 cm in length and refractive
index 1.4900 is then placed between the fixed mirror and the beam splitter.
What is the change in the optical path length of the fixed arm that results?
2. Relevant equations
this is were I'm stuck, I dont know what equation to use, I have looked all over for an equation, but most use frequency
3. The attempt at a solution