Find the upper bound on the relative speed of the Earth and the ether

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the upper bound on the relative speed of the Earth and the ether using the Michelson-Morley experiment parameters. The experiment utilized an interferometer with arm lengths of 40m, a wavelength of 632nm, and a maximum fringe separation of 0.0022 fringes. The relevant equation for this calculation is d = ((v^2)/(λc^2)) (L1 + L2). The significance of the result lies in its implications for the existence of ether, a concept that was ultimately dismissed in modern physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Michelson-Morley experiment
  • Familiarity with interferometry principles
  • Knowledge of wave mechanics, specifically fringe patterns
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the Michelson-Morley experiment on the theory of relativity
  • Learn about the concept of ether and its historical significance in physics
  • Explore advanced interferometry techniques and their applications
  • Investigate the mathematical derivation of fringe separation in interferometers
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying optics and relativity, as well as educators looking to explain the historical context of the Michelson-Morley experiment.

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Homework Statement



"The Michelson-Morley experiment was conducted using an interferometer with L1 = L2 = 40m, lambda = 632nm, and maximum fringe separation d = 0.0022 fringes.
Find the upper bound on the relative speed of the Earth and the ether, and clearly state the significance of the result in the context of the experiment."

Homework Equations



I'm going through all my Michelson-Morley notes and I found this equation:

d = ((v^2)/(λc^2)) (L1 + L2)

but I don't know if it's relevant!

The Attempt at a Solution



Honestly I have no idea... I can't find anything on 'upper bound' in my notes, I'm totally stumped. If anyone could help me out or point me in the right direction that would be brilliant :) Thank you!
 
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Not to worry, I think I have it worked out :) Thanks for reading!
 

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