Newton's Rings |
||
|
The air gap between an optical flat and a convex lens is a thin film of air. Interference is most easily seen in reflection over a very small central area. For a lens of one meter focal length the visible pattern in
white light has a diameter of 1-2 mm. The fringes are easy to
see on close inspection if it is realized that they are formed
in the air gap, not at infinity or somewhere else. To
see them, look closely and focus your eyes on the point of
contact.
|
||
|
The photographs were taken in reflected light using slide film. A low power microscope replaced the camera lens. Note the colors in the white light interference patern and the rapid fading of the pattern. Using a green filter sharpens the pattern somewhat. > More |
White
light (x10)
Green
light (x10)