Michelson-Morley Experiment

About

The Michelson-Morley experiment, conducted in 1887 by Albert Michelson and Edward Morley, aimed to detect the existence of luminiferous aether, a hypothetical medium thought to be necessary for light wave propagation. The experiment used an interferometer to split a light beam into two perpendicular paths, expecting a difference in light speed due to Earth's motion through the aether. However, no significant difference was observed, challenging the aether hypothesis and contributing to the development of Einstein's theory of relativity. The experiment's null result puzzled physicists but later became crucial evidence against aether theories. It led to a shift in understanding space and time, supporting Einstein's postulate that light speed is constant for all observers. The Michelson-Morley experiment has been repeated with increased sensitivity, confirming its findings and solidifying the foundation of special relativity. Its impact extends beyond physics, reshaping our understanding of the universe and the nature of light.