A Second Generation Laser-Interferometer System for the Absolute Determination of the Acceleration of Gravity.
Abstract
The acceleration due to gravity at a particular site is an important quantity for several purposes. It contributes to the general knowledge about the earth's gravity field and provides a calibration point for geodetic (relative) gravity meters. Its value comes into the determinations of several fundamental constants because of the definition of the ampere being based on the force between two wires with current flowing in them. The local acceleration of gravity together with a standard mass provides the most precisely known force in a laboratory. Precise measurements of g over extended periods of time with a drift-free instrument could possibly demonstrate long period effects of a geophysical or cosmological origin. A new second generation instrument for the measurement of this important physical quantity is being built and its design, together with some details of construction, are discussed in the report. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0764831
Entities
People
- James E. Faller
Organizations
- Wesleyan University