Refractive index measurement by prism autocollimation

An autocollimation-based method for measuring the refractive indices of solid or liquids using a Littrow prism is presented. Measurement accuracy is enhanced by use of a telescope. In solids, the refractive index is accurate to three decimal places. Similar accuracy is obtained in liquids by correcting for the wedge angle of the liquid container window. The proposed prismatic method confers high accuracy, compactness, and automation. It is suitable for index measurement applications in undergraduate laboratories.