MachZehnderinterferometeret

The Mach-Zehnder interferometer is an optical instrument that uses wave interference to measure changes in optical path length. It consists of a light source, beam splitters, mirrors, and detectors. Light from the source is split into two beams by a beam splitter. These beams then travel along separate paths, reflecting off mirrors, before being recombined by a second beam splitter. The interference pattern observed at the detectors depends on the phase difference between the two beams.

When the optical path lengths of the two beams are identical, constructive interference occurs, resulting in a bright fringe. If there is a difference in optical path length, destructive interference can occur, leading to a dark fringe. Even a slight alteration in the refractive index or physical length of one of the paths will cause a shift in the interference pattern.

This sensitivity makes the Mach-Zehnder interferometer highly useful for a variety of applications. It is employed in measuring the refractive index of transparent materials, detecting small displacements, analyzing phase shifts in optical signals, and in scientific research, such as in the study of plasma and in the development of optical modulators. The ability to precisely control and measure minute changes in light paths is its core principle of operation.