Michelson Interferometer with He-Ne Laser

Components of Michelson Interferometer with He-Ne Laser

• He-Ne Laser (Wavelength = 632.8 nm): Provides stable, monochromatic, coherent light.
• Beam Splitter: Divides the laser beam into two perpendicular paths.
• Mirrors (One Fixed, One Movable): Reflect the beams to create interference.
• Adjustable Micrometer Screw: Moves the mirror for precise measurements.
• Screen or CCD Detector: Captures the interference fringes.

Applications of Michelson Interferometer

1. Measurement of Wavelength of Light: By counting fringe shifts while moving the mirror.
2. Refractive Index Determination: By introducing a material in one path and observing fringe shifts.
3. Precision Metrology: Used for high-precision length measurements (nanometer accuracy).
4. Detection of Small Displacements: Used in gravitational wave detection (LIGO).
5. Spectroscopy and Thin Film Analysis: Used to measure thickness variations in transparent films