Light

Michelson Interferometer

Definition

A Michelson interferometer is an instrument that uses the principle of interference to measure small displacements, wavelengths, or refractive indices. It splits a beam of light into two paths, recombines them, and produces an interference pattern that can be analyzed.

Analogy

Imagine you have two identical jigsaw puzzles with missing pieces. You separate the pieces from each puzzle into two piles and then try to put them back together. By comparing how well the pieces fit together in both piles, you can determine if any pieces are missing or if they match perfectly. Similarly, a Michelson interferometer splits light into two paths and compares their interference patterns to measure small changes or properties.

Related terms

Interference Pattern: An interference pattern is a series of bright and dark regions produced when two or more waves superpose (combine) at certain points in space.

Laser Interferometry: Laser interferometry is a technique that uses laser light as a source for creating precise interference patterns to measure distances or detect minute changes in length.

Coherence Length: The coherence length refers to the distance over which light waves maintain their phase relationship before becoming incoherent (out-of-sync). It affects the visibility and quality of interference fringes in interferometers.