Ultrasonic Grating Apparatus

Unique demonstration of the interaction of longitudinal sound waves and transverse light waves.

The core of the apparatus is a parallel-sided glass tank that houses the liquid sample and contains a lead zirconate titanate (PZT) ultrasonic transducer. The transducer is energized by an RF signal in the 8-12MHz range. Resonances can be found to set up a standing wave field in the liquid, which results in a periodic variation of the liquid’s refractive index along the tank. If a parallel light beam is now shone through the tank normally to the standing wave field, the liquid acts as a diffraction grating, producing fringes that can be measured with a micrometer eyepiece. In practice, the eyepiece is focused on the source slit and the exciting RF frequency is adjusted until the interference fringes appear. The apparatus can be used for any clear non-aggressive liquid of low electrical conductivity. Includes the following components: Optical Bench,1000mm, qty=1; Rider, lateral adjustment, qty=1; Riders, plain, qty=4; Micrometer eyepiece, qty=1; Eyepiece adapter ring, qty=1; Glass tank for HF grating, qty=1; HF generator and frame, qty=1, Optical Table, qty=1; Connecting cords, qty=2; Lenses, f = +170 mm, qty=2; Height fixing collar, qty= 1; Eyepiece holder, adjustable, qty=1, Lens holders, plain, qty=2; Adjustable slit, qty=1; Mercury lamp 20W 110V, qty=1.