Refraction, total reflection, and diffraction of 3.2 cm. electromagnetic waves by a dielectric prism

Abstract

A description of several experiments carried out to investigate the behaviour of 3.2 cm. microwaves on passing through a dielectric prism is given in this thesis. Chapter I contains a description of the experimental apparatus used to generate electromagnetic radiation and to measure the field intensity in a plane perpendicular to the refracting edge of the prism. Particular emphasis is placed on a description of the receiver amplifier, and on the construction of the wax prism. In Chapter II are given the results of several preliminary investigations of the field close to, and polarized parallel to the retracting edge of the prism. Fresnel interference fringes were observed with the prism oriented as a biprism. Diffraction fringes of a 45˚ wedge, both dielectric and metallic, were observed incidentally. Evidence of the evanescent wave predicted for total internal reflection was obtained directly in this experiment where earlier evidence of such waves in the optical and microwave regions has been indirect.