L4-42: MICROWAVES - INDEX OF REFRACTION

PURPOSE: To determine the index of refraction of paraffin for microwaves.

DESCRIPTION: By measuring the minimum angle of deviation a for a microwave beam passing through an equilateral paraffin prism, the index of refraction N can be calculated:

N = 2 sin ( 30 degrees + a / 2 ).

SUGGESTIONS:

REFERENCES: (PIRA 6A42.55)

EQUIPMENT: Microwave transmitter and receiver with overhead projector meter, paraffin prism, and large protractor.

SETUP TIME: 5 min.

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