- #1
mk9898
- 109
- 9
Why was it important that both arms were parallel and perpendicular to the rotation of the earth?
Michelson-Morley Experiment: the importance of the laser position
- Context: Undergrad
- Thread starter mk9898
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- Experiment Laser Position
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the Michelson-Morley experiment, specifically focusing on the significance of the orientation of its arms in relation to the Earth's rotation. Participants explore the experiment's design, its purpose in detecting aether, and the principles of interference and interferometry.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants inquire about the importance of having one arm parallel and the other perpendicular to the Earth's rotation.
- There are questions regarding the experiment's design aimed at detecting aether and the concepts of interference and interferometers.
- One participant expresses frustration over perceived lack of direct answers and challenges another's approach to discussion.
- Another participant defends their method of inquiry, suggesting that understanding the questioner's knowledge is crucial for effective learning.
- There is a reference to a guideline on how to ask questions in the forum, indicating a community expectation for detailed inquiries.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
The discussion reflects a lack of consensus, with participants expressing differing views on the appropriateness of the questions posed and the responses given. Some participants feel that direct answers are needed, while others emphasize the importance of understanding the underlying concepts.
Contextual Notes
Participants' knowledge levels and assumptions about the experiment are not fully articulated, leading to potential misunderstandings. The discussion also highlights the community's expectations for question formulation.
- #2
DennisN
Gold Member
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Hi mk9898, do you know what the experiment was designed to detect?mk9898 said:
- #3
mk9898
- 109
- 9
Of course...
- #4
DennisN
Gold Member
- 2,186
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Ok. A couple of more questionsmk9898 said:
: Do you know how the experiment was designed to detect an aether? And do you know what interference is (i.e. interference of light/electromagnetic waves) and/or how an interferometer works?- #5
mk9898
- 109
- 9
Can someone answer my question? It seems DennisN just wants to be superfluous and cheeky.
- #6
DennisN
Gold Member
- 2,186
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Definitely.mk9898 said:
Not at all. I am doing my best to help out. You were very short in your first post, and also in your reply, so I am trying to understand what you know and don't know about the experiment. If I just tell you the answer to your question, the result may be that you learn less about the physics of this experiment.mk9898 said:
- #7
DrClaude
Mentor
- 8,478
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That's not true. Seemk9898 said:
https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/little-excuse-ask-question-cold/
Thread closed. You may only open a new thread on the same topic if you detail what you know about the MM experiment and what you are struggling to understand.
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