PURPOSE: Michelson interferometer using microwaves.
DESCRIPTION: A wire cookie cooler is used as the beam splitter in a microwave Michelson interferometer. Two aluminum plates function as the mirrors on the two legs. As either of the plates is moved along the optic axis the intensity of the beam at the location of the receiving antenna varies, with the intensity displayed on an overhead projector meter. The wavelength of the microwaves is about 12 cm, so a change of about six cm is required for the two beams to change in or out of phase.
SUGGESTIONS:
REFERENCES: (PIRA 6D40.20)
EQUIPMENT: Microwave transmitter and receiver with overhead projector microammeter, wire cookie cooler sheet, two aluminum plates.
SETUP TIME: 10 min.
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