An accurate method for refractive index measurements of liquids using two Michelson laser interferometers

Abstract

This article describes how a thin wedge can be combined with two Michelson laser interferometers to determine precisely the refractive index of liquids. The precision of our experimental technique is such that the refractive index values obtained with this method can yield results with a statistical error of 5×10−6. The experimental refractive index values of ethanol, CCl4, toluene, benzene, and CS2 obtained by using bidistilled water as a reference are reported.