Help me in michelson interferometer

In summary, the problem is asking for the angular radius of the tenth bright fringe in a Michelson interferometer when the central-path difference is 1.50 mm or 1.5 cm, using orange light from a krypton arc. The equations 2d sin theta = m lambda and 2d cos theta = m lambda can be used, but the poster is unsure which equation to use and the answer they obtained does not seem logical. They also mention being unaware of circular fringes being produced in a Michelson interferometer and ask if there is any additional information given.
  • #1
kelambumlm
5
0

Homework Statement



Find the angular radius of the tenth bright fringe in a Michelson interferometer
when the central-path difference (2d) is (i) 1.50 mm and (ii) 1.5 cm.
Assume the orange light of a krypton arc is used and that the interference is
adjusted in each case so that the first bright fringe forms a maximum at the
centre of the pattern.




Homework Equations



2d sin theta = m lambda or
2d cos theta= m lamda


The Attempt at a Solution


i confuse to use the equation.

theta= cos-1 or sin -1 (6057 armstrong x 10th) divide 1.50mm
the answer that i get is not logic.
 
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  • #2
I'm unaware of circular fringes being produced in a Michelson interferometer. Ideally, there either is or isn't light at the detector or screen.

Is there any more information given in the problem statement?
 

1. What is a Michelson Interferometer?

A Michelson Interferometer is a scientific instrument used to measure the wavelength of light and to study the properties of light. It consists of a beam splitter, two mirrors, and a detector. The device works by splitting a beam of light into two paths, reflecting them off mirrors, and then recombining them to create an interference pattern.

2. How does a Michelson Interferometer work?

The Michelson Interferometer works by splitting a beam of light into two paths using a beam splitter. One path is reflected off a fixed mirror, while the other is reflected off a movable mirror. The two paths then recombine, and the resulting interference pattern is detected. The interference pattern is affected by the difference in the path lengths, which can be used to measure the wavelength of light or other properties of light.

3. What are the applications of a Michelson Interferometer?

The Michelson Interferometer has many applications in science and technology. It is commonly used in the field of optics to measure the wavelength of light, to study the properties of light, and to analyze the composition of materials. It is also used in astronomy to measure the diameter of stars and to detect exoplanets. In addition, it has applications in telecommunications, such as in fiber optic communication systems.

4. What are the advantages of using a Michelson Interferometer?

One advantage of using a Michelson Interferometer is its high precision. It can measure very small differences in path lengths, making it useful for precise measurements. It is also a versatile instrument, with a wide range of applications in various fields of science and technology. Additionally, it is relatively simple and inexpensive compared to other instruments used for similar purposes.

5. Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using a Michelson Interferometer?

One limitation of the Michelson Interferometer is that it can only measure differences in path lengths up to the coherence length of the light source. This means that it is not suitable for measuring longer distances. Additionally, it requires a stable light source and precise alignment of the mirrors, which can be challenging to achieve. Lastly, the interpretation of the interference pattern may require complex mathematical calculations, making it more time-consuming compared to other instruments.

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