The angle of rotation of the polarisation- plane of plane polarised light through a flint glass rod is found to be a linear function of the product of the mean flux-densitiy and the length of the optical medium. The factor of proportionally, called Verdet's constant, is investigated as a function of the wavelength and the optical medium.
Benefits
experience that magnetic fields can influence light by changing ist polarization properties
learn how wavelength and the optical medium influence the effect of the magnetic field
discover a bridge between the fields of optics and electromagnetism
Tasks
To determine the magnetic flux-densitiy between the pole pieces using the axial Hall probe of the teslameter for different coil currents. The mean flux-density is calculated by numerical integration and the ratio maximum flux-density over mean flux-density established.
To measure the maximum flux- density as a function of the coil current and to establish the relationship between mean flux-density and coil current anticipating that the ratio found under 1. remains constant.
To determine the angle of rotation as a function of the mean fluxdensity using different colour filters. To calculate the corresponding Verdet's constant in each case.
To evaluate Verdet's constant as a function of the wavelength.