interferogram
Quick Summary
An interferogram is a pattern of bright and dark bands, known as interference fringes, created by the superposition of light waves. These fringes form when light waves are either in phase (constructive interference) or out of phase (destructive interference).1
Optical interferometers utilize interference fringes to make precise measurements. They work by splitting a beam of light into multiple beams that travel different paths. When these beams recombine, their interference creates the fringe pattern, which provides information for measurements such as length, surface irregularities, and refractive index. Instruments like the Michelson interferometer and the Fabry-Pérot interferometer are key examples used in various scientific and industrial applications.23
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