2023 BFY4 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: |
Birefringence and polarization experiments using calcite crystals in optical tweezers |
| Abstract: |
Single-crystal calcite is a perfect medium for demonstrating principles of birefringence, polarization, and the angular momentum carried by light. In this poster we illustrate two experiments demonstrating the interaction of polarized light with birefringent calcite crystals. The first experiment involves trapping and levitating stationary calcite crystals with linearly polarized light; the crystals orient themselves relative to the beam axis and the direction of polarization. Our understanding of this stationary orientation is based on equilibrium positions, which are found by examining the induced polarization in the crystal. The second experiment is to rotate trapped and levitated crystals with circularly or elliptically polarized light. The theory of rotation of these crystals can be quite complex, but at a basic level can be described with the change in angular momentum of light passing through the crystal. We also explain the precipitation process for growing calcite crystals using chemicals commonly found in a chemistry stockroom. This set of advanced lab experiments can be successfully performed with a rudimentary optical tweezer apparatus and access to common chemicals. The learning outcomes of the experiments include implementing optical tweezers, understanding polarization and birefringence, and applying electromagnetic theory to the propagation of light in crystals. |
| Abstract Type: |
Poster
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Author/Organizer Information |
| Primary Contact: |
Catherine Herne
SUNY New Paltz
New Paltz, NY 12561
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| Contributed Poster: |
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