Accuracy of the Differential-interferometric Measurements of Curvature

Abstract

The radius of curvature at the top of small liquid drops has been determined both visually and by means of differential interferometry in reflected light (microscope Epival Interphako, Carl Zeiss-Jena). Systematic errors in the interferometric measurements have not been found within the investigated interval of curvatures. A comparison between the data for aqueous and mercury drops showed that there is no pronounced effect of the reflectivity of the surface on the accuracy of the interferometric measurements.