Wavelength- and temperature-dependent measurement of refractive indices

A new method for determination of the refractive index of any transparent solvent or glass was developed and tested for use at temperatures of 133-293 K in the ultraviolet and visible spectral ranges. The wavelength and temperature dependencies of the refractive indices of several solvents and of fused silica are reported. The data obtained for tetrachloromethane and fused silica are compared with those available in the literature. The advantages and limitations of the method are discussed, based on the accuracy of the data presented. Knowing the values of refractive indices of organic solvents should be useful in luminescence spectroscopy. (C) 2004 Optical Society of America.