Movable mirror of a Michelson interferometer

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem related to the displacement of the movable mirror in a Michelson interferometer, specifically how far it must be moved for 2000 fringes to pass a reference point, given a light source wavelength of 589 nm.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the path length difference associated with the movement of 2000 fringes and discuss the relationship between wavelength and constructive interference.

Discussion Status

Some participants are exploring the implications of the wavelength provided and its role in determining the path length difference necessary for the specified number of fringes. There is a lack of explicit consensus on how to approach the problem, with some seeking clarification on the question itself.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a related question involving a Sagnac interferometer, which introduces additional complexity and may reflect on the participants' understanding of interferometric principles.

oaly
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i know the question may be a bit stupid to some people, but i seriously don't know how to do it...

Homework Statement


How far must the movable mirror of a Michelson interferometer, illuminated by a 589-nm source, be displaces for 2000 fringes to move past the reference point?


Homework Equations



i have no idea

The Attempt at a Solution



i don't know how to solve it
 
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What's the path length difference associated with 2000 fringes?
 


ideasrule said:
What's the path length difference associated with 2000 fringes?

it does not say, that was the whole question.
 


Yes, but it does tell you the wavelength, and constructive interference occurs when the path length difference is an integer multiple of the wavelength.
 


can anyone answer this question
In Sagnac interferometer replace the beam splitter by a fourth mirror and calculate how many loops around the interferometer can the light make before its intensity is reduced by 99%??
 

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