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Fresnel mirror
Fresnel mirror

Fresnel mirror

Date1850-1900
Inventory Number1997-1-1575
ClassificationMirror
Subject
    Cultural Region
      Dimensions34 × 14 × 9 cm (13 3/8 × 5 1/2 × 3 9/16 in.)
      Material
        DescriptionTwo hinged black mirrors mounted on a square frame acting as a diaphragm. The mirrors can be slightly angled using the thumb screws on the other side of the diaphragm. The mirrors are set in a brass stand with a circular base. This stand, however, may not be original to the mirrors and diaphragm.
        Signedunsigned
        FunctionA Fresnel mirror is an instrument designed to demonstrate light interference. It is similar to a Fresnel mirror. It consists of two mirrors, one of which adjustable. When a monochromatic light is shone on the instrument, two reflections are generated: a direct one from the fixed mirror and a second one from the slightly angled mirror. The latter creates the effect of a virtual second light source. When these two reflected light beams interact together, as seen on a screen, they produce interference fringes.

        For similar mirrors, go to the following website.
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        Date: 1835-1840
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        Date: 1937-1941
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        Date: c. 1860
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