Fabry-Pérot Interferometer

Definition

A Fabry-Pérot Interferometer is an optical device that uses interference to measure the wavelength of light or the thickness of transparent materials. It consists of two parallel mirrors with a small gap in between, allowing light to enter and reflect multiple times.

Related terms

Interference:

The interaction of two or more waves that results in their combination or cancellation. For example, when two water waves meet and create larger or smaller waves.

Wavelength:

The distance between successive crests (or troughs) of a wave. It determines the color of light we perceive.

Thin Film Interference:

A phenomenon that occurs when light reflects off thin films, causing constructive or destructive interference based on the film's thickness.