Question

The Michelson Interferometer

What is the geometrical relationship between the planes of mirrors A and B for each of the three patterns in Fig 2?

so that the absence of a univenal on a magnetic holder on the metal plate between the laser and Splitter 13-3

Answer 1

the nature of fringes fully depends on the path difference i.e. the alignment of the mirrors. if the mirrors are aligned perpendicular at equal distances then you would observe a dark spot/circle in the screen.

1. when the apex of the mirrors are not in the field of view i.e. if they are perpendicular but one of the mirrors is reversed then you would observe a pattern as shown in fig 2a. here it is a mixture of straight fringes and circular fringes.

2. when the mirrors are aligned such that they are not perpendicular to each other. that is, the mirrors are inclined at a certain angle then the fringes observed are straight parallel bright/dark spots. they are also called as equal thickness fringes. (fig 2b)

3. when the mirrors are aligned perpendicular to each other and the apex is in the field of view, then we will observe circular fringes. (fig 2c)