Fresnel mirror
Date1890-1910
Inventory Number1997-1-0268
ClassificationMirror
Subject
Maker
American
?
Maker
German
?
User
Bowdoin College, Department of Physics
founded after 1794
Cultural Region
Place of Use
Dimensions20 × 1.9 × 13.2 cm (7 7/8 × 3/4 × 5 3/16 in.)
Material
DescriptionTwo pieces of black glass mounted in frame on a metal rod. One of the glass mirrors can be slightly angled. To do so, there is on the back a bent piece of metal acting as a spring and a small knurled knob, thus adjusting the pressure on the mirror and consequently its angular position.
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.
For similar mirrors, go to the following website.
ProvenanceFrom the Department of Physics, Bowdoin College.
Wilmer C. Anderson
Date: 1937-1941
Accessories: cover is stored separately
Object number: 1996-1-0677
