1. What Is The Michelson Interferometer Formula?

The Michelson interferometer formula calculates the wavelength of light based on the path difference and interference order. It is fundamental in optical physics for determining light properties through interference patterns.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Michelson interferometer equation:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength of light (m)
• \( d \) — Path difference (m)
• \( m \) — Order of interference (unitless)

Explanation: The formula relates the wavelength of light to the path difference between the two arms of the interferometer and the order of the interference pattern observed.

3. Importance Of Wavelength Calculation

Details: Accurate wavelength measurement is crucial for spectroscopy, precision measurements, and understanding light-matter interactions in various scientific and industrial applications.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter path difference in meters and interference order (a positive number). Both values must be valid (d > 0, m > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a Michelson interferometer used for?
A: It's used to measure small displacements, refractive index changes, and most importantly, the wavelength of light with high precision.

Q2: What is the interference order (m)?
A: The order represents the number of wavelengths in the path difference. It's a dimensionless number that counts interference fringes.

Q3: What are typical wavelength values for visible light?
A: Visible light wavelengths range from approximately 380 nm (violet) to 750 nm (red), or 3.8×10⁻⁷ m to 7.5×10⁻⁷ m.

Q4: Why is the factor of 2 in the formula?
A: The factor of 2 accounts for the round trip of light in one arm of the interferometer compared to the other.

Q5: What are the limitations of this formula?
A: The formula assumes ideal conditions and may need adjustments for very precise measurements accounting for air refractive index, temperature, and other environmental factors.