Investigation of classical and quantum interference using interferometery

As part of developing a Bell’s Inequality Test of Quantum Mechanics laboratory at CWU we have investigated classical interference using a Fabry-Perot and a Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The classical interference investigation was done using several HeNe lasers of different wavelengths. Optimization of data collection for the classical systems was accomplished by fabricating several pieces: a motorized micrometer platform, building a mount for a piezo electric tube, and building a fringe counting circuit. To investigate quantum interference the same Mach-Zhender interferometer was used but the HeNe laser beam was attenuated. We investigated alternative methods for attenuating the HeNe laser beam. An SBIG ST-7 CCD camera was evaluated for use as a single photon detector and used to collect data from the Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The results were compared with results using a single photon counting module. The results were consistent with the predictions of single photon interference in the Mach-Zehnder interferometer