Kerr Effect Apparatus

Holmarc's Kerr effect apparatus (Model No: HO-ED-P-05A) is used to determine the Kerr constant of the Liquid (Nitro Benzene C₆ H₅ NO₂ ). In this apparatus, Nitrobenzene is used as the Kerr agent because Nitrobenzene shows a large Kerr constant than other polar liquids. Multiple travel of laser beams through Kerr cell helps to make it compact. This apparatus helps students to acquire knowledge on the fundamental physical property, Kerr Effect.

The Kerr effect, also called the quadratic electro-optic effect (QEO effect), is a change in the refractive index of a material in response to an applied electric field. Filtration column for purifying Nitrobenzene will be supplied along with the equipment.

Experiment:

   Determination of half-wave voltage of the cell

The phase-shift between the normal and the extra-ordinary light beam is to be recorded for different voltages applied to the Kerr cell respectively for different electric field strengths. The half wave voltage is to be determined.

In this apparatus, polarized light from a DPSS laser is directed to pass through the space between the electrodes of the Kerr cell. The beam is reflected by a mirror from the other side of the Kerr cell and again it passes through the space between the electrodes. With the help of a beamsplitter and convex lens, the beam is directed to focus on a Si photo diode detector. Embodiments of Kerr effect apparatus provide a phase-shift between the normal and the extra-ordinary light beam and it can be recorded for different voltages applied to the Kerr cell for different electric field strengths.

In this apparatus, polarized light from a DPSS laser is directed to pass through the space between the electrodes of the Kerr cell. The beam is reflected by a mirror from the other side of the Kerr cell and again it passes through the space between the electrodes. With the help of a beamsplitter and convex lens, the beam is directed to focus on a Si photo diode detector. Embodiments of Kerr effect apparatus provide a phase-shift between the normal and the extra-ordinary light beam and it can be recorded for different voltages applied to the Kerr cell for different electric field strengths.

Graph I
Relative luminous intensity Vs Applied Voltage

Graph II
Phase Shift Vs Voltage²

^Features:

Safe and convenient

Rigid support for easy operation

Advanced and well proven opto-mechanical designs coupled to high performance electronics

^Drawings:

^{Related Topics:}

Kerr effect

Polarization

Half Wave Voltage

Kerr Constant

 

Scope of Delivery:

Optical Breadboard with Support

Kinematic Mirror Mount

Beam Splitter Mount

Polarizer Rotator with Mount

Detector Mount

Plano Convex Lens with Mount

Kerr Cell

Kerr Cell Mount

DPSS Laser

DPSS Laser Mount

Mirror with Cell

Beam Splitter

Switched Mode Power Supply

Detector Output Measurement Unit

Accessories

Filtration column
Allen Key
Instruction Manual