Answer
In a microwave experiment and in the Michelson interferometer, the phase changes due to reflection from a metal surface can be ignored because the reflections from the metal surfaces are not constructive or destructive.
Work Step by Step
When microwaves or light reflect from a metal surface, they do undergo a phase shift of 180 degrees, known as phase inversion. However, in the case of a microwave experiment and Michelson interferometer, the metal surfaces are not used as a part of the interferometer setup and the phase shift does not affect the interference pattern.
For example, in the Michelson interferometer, the mirrors are used to reflect light beams and create interference. The metal surfaces are not used in this process and the 180 degree phase shift that occurs when light reflects off the metal surfaces is not important.
Similarly, in a microwave experiment, the phase shift that occurs when microwaves reflect from metal surfaces does not affect the overall interference pattern because the metal surfaces are not used to create the interference.
In summary, the phase shift of 180 degrees that occurs when microwaves or light reflect from metal surfaces can be ignored in a microwave experiment and in the Michelson interferometer because the metal surfaces are not used as a part of the interferometer setup and the phase shift does not affect the interference pattern.
