Tag: Interferometry
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LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory)
Introduction The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) represents one of the most ambitious and successful projects in experimental physics. It was designed to detect gravitational waves, ripples in the fabric of spacetime caused by violent cosmic events like the collision of black holes or neutron stars. Theoretical Background: Gravitational Waves Gravitational waves, predicted by Einstein’s…
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Sagnac Effect
Introduction The Sagnac effect, named after French physicist Georges Sagnac, is a phenomenon in the field of interferometry that manifests itself as a phase shift between two light beams traveling in opposite directions around a rotating platform. This effect is significant in areas like geophysics, navigation, and technology associated with light propagation and rotation. The…
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Chapter 4: The Michelson Interferometer
4.1 Introduction to the Michelson Interferometer The Michelson Interferometer is an optical instrument that utilizes interference to measure distances and wavelengths with high precision. It was invented by Albert A. Michelson in the late 19th century and has been used in various scientific experiments, including the famous Michelson-Morley experiment, which tested the existence of the…
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Michelson-Morley Experiment
Introduction The Michelson-Morley experiment was a pivotal moment in the history of physics. Conducted by Albert A. Michelson and Edward W. Morley in 1887, it aimed to detect the relative motion of matter through the hypothetical “luminiferous aether” which was believed to carry light waves. The null result of this experiment set the stage for…
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Interferometry
Introduction Interferometry is a family of techniques in physics which use the phenomenon of interference to make precise measurements of various quantities. It involves superposing (or “mixing”) waves to extract information about the waves or the media they have interacted with. Basic Principle The basic principle of interferometry involves splitting a wave into two or…