MACH-ZEHNDER INTERFEROMETER AND ITS TEACHING APPLICATION IN THE MEASUREMENT OF AIR REFRACTIVE INDEX

As a commonly used optical system, Mach-Zehnder interferometer has important applications in specific techniques such as optical interferometric measurement and imaging. In response to the requirements for cultivating new engineering talents with practical innovation capabilities, this paper designs an experiment for measuring the refractive index of air based on the Mach-Zehnder interferometer. In addition to teaching students the basic principles and concepts of optics, the paper also introduces and discusses the data processing and analysis methods involved. This paper aims to cultivate the comprehensive abilities of undergraduate students in applied physics, optics, optoelectronic information, and related majors, from the construction of optical systems to data acquisition and analysis. By prompting students to think deeply about the core principles of optical measurement methods, the achievable measurement accuracy, and their influencing factors, the paper further fosters and expands students' innovative capabilities.