PH3210 Optics: Laboratory Instructions

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Last modified July 13, 2009

List of optics experiments:

Thin Lenses
Polarization
Fiber Optics and Communication
Michelson Interferometer
Diffraction Gratings

Preparation for your experiments

Before coming to the laboratory, you are required to read the references listed in the instruction. These references contain the essential principles and guidelines needed to conduct the experiment.
Plan for your experiment by reading through the experimental procedure. Remember that you have three hours for each experiment. You should understand the motivation of each experiment by relating these procedures to the references that you have read.
Understand the calculations involved in interpreting your data. This will allow you to make an immediate checking on your data during the experiments. The more you understand about your data in the lab, the easier it will be to write the report.

Laser Safety and Other Considerations

In this lab, some of the experiments require the use of lasers. Be aware of which labs are using lasers and where they are located in the room. Keep your eyes above the optic plane of the laser (about 3 to 8 inches above the table level) at all times. Avoid bending down and expose your eyes to this dangerous level. When working on a lab that uses a laser, remove any shiny hand jewelry or watches that may reflect the beam in an unsafe direction. Turn off the power of a laser when you are mounting and demounting the laser. Turn on the laser only when you have made sure that the laser light will not be harmful to others around you. Laser goggles are required for use of the “unknown laser” in the Michelson Interferometer experiment.

Do not touch the major surfaces of lenses and diffraction gratings. Gloves or finger cots will be provided for handling the lenses in the thin lens experiment. Handle the lenses by the edges only. Avoid lifting the lenses over the floor or higher than is necessary to avoid falling and breaking of the lenses. If your lenses or gratings are dirty, ask helps from the TA for cleaning. Report any dirt that you have observed on these optic devices before you get started with your experiments. Your team will be responsible to replace any devices that are damaged by your team members by intention.

No food or drinks on the work benches.

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