In order to observe two successive bright or dark fringes in Michelson's interferometer, the movable mirror is displaced through a distance of:
Correct answer: B. λ/ 2
- A. λ
- B. λ/ 2
- C. λ/ 4
- D. 2λ
Explanation
In Michelson's interferometer, in order to observe two successive bright or dark fringes, the movable mirror needs to be displaced through a distance of λ/2. This is because the path difference between the two beams must be equal to the wavelength divided by 2 for constructive or destructive interference to occur. Therefore, the correct answer is Option B. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the correct distance the movable mirror needs to be displaced.
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Light is studied through reflection, refraction, dispersion, interference, diffraction and polarization, linking ray behavior with its wave nature. Questions may involve mirrors, lenses, optical instruments, refractive index and image formation, while geometrical optics deals with rays and wave optics explains effects such as interference and diffraction.
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